Madison Keys said Saturday that she was trying to embrace the extra pressure that comes with starting the year's first Grand Slam as defending champion.
The American pulled off a shock in the Australian Open final last year when she beat top seed Aryna Sabalenka in a three-set classic to win her maiden major title aged 29.
The world No 7 said that while she felt the weight of expectation heading into her title defence in Melbourne this month, she is determined to enjoy it.
"There is obviously a lot of pressure that comes with doing as well as I did last year," she said at the season-opening Brisbane International.
"But not very many people get to go into this swing being a defending champion.
"So I'm trying really just to appreciate that and enjoy the position I've put myself in."
The reigning Australian Open champ is in the house 😎 @Madison_Keys pic.twitter.com/dkpgdesgGr
— Brisbane International (@BrisbaneTennis) January 1, 2026
Brisbane, which acts as build-up for the Australian Open, features seven of the world's top 10 women.
If the draw goes according to the seedings Keys will meet world No 1 Sabalenka in the quarterfinals.
"This week has always been one of those weeks where the field is pretty difficult and tough," said Keys.
"There is not a ton of places for all of us to go and play.
"We'll inevitably all end up in the same place. I think it always kind of brings out the best in all of us."
Keys has a first-round bye and will play either compatriot McCartney Kessler or Colombian Emiliana Arango in the second round.