‘What is she wearing?’: Taylor Townsend’s bold US Open outfit against Sabalenka stuns fans
The American star turned heads with a bold, feathered outfit as fans debated her unusual US Open look
Taylor Townsend gave US Open spectators plenty to talk about before she’d even struck a ball against Aryna Sabalenka on Sunday.
The American arrived at Arthur Ashe Stadium for her fourth-round meeting with the defending champion wearing a dramatic all-black outfit that immediately grabbed attention.
The ensemble had a flowing, feathered appearance, while Townsend also wore the hood over her head as she made her way toward the court.
Photos and videos of the entrance quickly spread across social media, with fans expressing a mixture of amusement, criticism and disbelief. Some questioned the unconventional look, while others compared Townsend’s appearance to everything from a mysterious character to the legendary Sasquatch.
The reaction added another chapter to an increasingly fashion-focused US Open, where players have been using their outfits to showcase their personalities and individuality rather than sticking strictly to traditional tennis attire.
Townsend , who’s become one of the most recognizable American players on the circuit, has embraced fashion throughout her time in New York. She’s also been involved in designing clothing and hosted a pop-up shop in Brooklyn ahead of this year’s tournament.
Fashion has become part of the US Open spectacle
Townsend wasn’t the only player attracting attention for her wardrobe at Flushing Meadows. Sabalenka has repeatedly made headlines with unconventional designs during the tournament, including basketball-inspired outfits and eye-catching orange and black combinations.
The world No. 1 initially turned heads with a black basketball-style ensemble that featured her bright orange sports bra and matching briefs. She later wore an all-orange version before returning to another black look.
Naomi Osaka has also continued her reputation for bold Grand Slam fashion. The Japanese star has appeared in outfits featuring oversized layers, dramatic silhouettes and distinctive tailoring, including a striking white ensemble with a long overshirt decorated with tennis-racket details.
Her clothing has occasionally created practical problems, too. During one appearance, the long fabric trailing behind Osaka caught around her feet as she approached the net for the coin toss.
The attention surrounding Townsend's entrance came on one of the biggest stages of her tournament. The 30-year-old had reached the fourth round after overcoming Diana Shnaider in a three-set battle, earning her place among the final 16 players in the women’s singles draw.
Waiting for her was a formidable opponent in Sabalenka , who entered the contest as the top seed and was chasing a third straight US Open title.
The match itself produced plenty of drama after the fashion headlines. The opening five games featured five breaks of serve, with Sabalenka eventually taking control and moving ahead 4-2 before securing the first set 6-4.
Townsend then made a strong start to the second set, breaking Sabalenka and establishing a 3-1 advantage. But the American couldn’t maintain her momentum.
Sabalenka responded by winning five consecutive games, turning the set around and completing a 6-4, 6-3 victory to reach the quarterfinals.
While Sabalenka ultimately had the final say on court, Townsend ensured she’d made her presence felt before the match even began.
