US Open 2025: Taylor Townsend overcomes Ostapenko row to defeat Mirra Andreeva and reach last 16
Taylor Townsend silenced critics to upset world No.5 Mirra Andreeva in straight sets at the US Open, advancing to the fourth round amid controversy over Jelena Ostapenko’s remarks.
Townsend prevails in straight sets
Taylor Townsend defeated fifth seed Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 6-2 under the lights at Flushing Meadows, reaching the US Open fourth round for the first time since 2019. The 29-year-old American produced 23 winners and showed remarkable composure in a tense first set.
Criticism fuels her resolve
Townsend arrived at Arthur Ashe Stadium facing questions after Jelena Ostapenko accused her of having "no education" and "no class" following their second-round match. Townsend received support from fellow players, including Naomi Osaka, who described Ostapenko’s comments as unacceptable.
Reflecting on the incident, Townsend said she did not sense racial undertones in the Latvian’s remarks but was determined to keep her focus. "It's bigger than me. It's about representation and being able to show up as yourself," she told the crowd.
Looking ahead
Townsend will face unseeded Barbora Krejcikova in the fourth round on Sunday. Ranked 139th in singles but world No.1 in doubles, she aims to continue her breakthrough run in New York.
Townsend’s victory symbolises more than sport, highlighting representation and resilience in the face of criticism.
This topic was reported by BBC.
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