Taylor Townsend put aside the recent controversy involving Jelena Ostapenko to defeat fifth seed Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 6-2 and reach the US Open last 16.
Idman.biz, citing BBC, reports that the 29-year-old American, playing at Flushing Meadows’ fourth round for the first time since 2019, described the victory as “bigger than me,” emphasizing its significance for representation and self-expression.
Earlier in the tournament, Ostapenko criticized Townsend, saying she had “no education” and “no class” after their second-round match, sparking backlash from players including Naomi Osaka. Townsend clarified she did not perceive any racial undertone in the comments.
On Friday, Townsend showcased fearless shot-making, winning in just 76 minutes and hitting 23 winners. Ranked 139th in singles but number one in doubles, she has previously won Wimbledon and Australian Open titles with Katerina Siniakova.
Townsend will face unseeded Barbora Krejcikova in the fourth round. She reflected on the past 48 hours, saying she stood in her truth, ignored external drama, and even turned off her phone to focus. “You guys saw the real Taylor Townsend tonight,” she told the crowd, highlighting the personal and symbolic importance of her victory.
