In a breathtaking display of old-school tennis artistry, Taylor Townsend pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the US Open so far, dismantling former champion Barbora Krejcikova in a gripping third-round encounter on Louis Armstrong Stadium.
The American, ranked 42nd in the world, defied the odds and conventional modern tactics with a relentless serve-and-volley assault that left the 2021 winner utterly bewildered. The 6-4, 6-4 victory wasn't just a win; it was a statement.
A Tactical Revolution on Court
From the first serve, Townsend's intent was clear. She charged the net an astonishing 45 times, winning 32 of those points in a display of aggressive tennis rarely seen in the modern baseline-dominated game. Her fearless approach completely disrupted Krejcikova's rhythm, preventing the Czech star from finding any consistency with her powerful groundstrokes.
'I just stuck to my game plan,' Townsend remarked courtside after her victory. 'I knew I had to be aggressive and take time away from her. This is how I love to play tennis.'
From Doubles Dominance to Singles Success
This monumental victory continues a remarkable career resurgence for the 29-year-old American. Already a grand slam champion in doubles, Townsend is now proving she belongs with the elite in singles. Her run to the fourth round at Wimbledon earlier this year was a sign of things to come, and this performance at Flushing Meadows confirms her status as a genuine threat.
Krejcikova, who had been in formidable form coming into the tournament, was left to rue a performance where she never quite found her range. 'She was just better today,' the dejected Czech star conceded. 'Her game was very uncomfortable for me. I couldn't find the answers.'
What Lies Ahead
Townsend's reward for her spectacular victory is a place in the last 16 of her home grand slam, where she will face the winner of the match between Coco Gauff and Maria Sakkari. Based on this evidence, whichever player progresses will have a formidable challenge on their hands.
This performance will be remembered not just for the result, but for the manner of its execution. In an era of power baseline tennis, Taylor Townsend has revived a classic art form and in doing so, has electrified the New York crowd and announced herself as a true contender for the title.
