Following her strong US Open showing, Taylor Townsend didn’t exactly launch her Asian swing on a high note. The American reached the singles R16 and doubles final in New York, riding momentum after clinching the Citi Open doubles crown and rising to World No.1 in doubles. But just as it was time to bring the magic to the Billie Jean King Cup, her campaign started with more drama than delight.

The 29-year-old, who made headlines last month when Jelena Ostapenko accused her of having “no class” and “no education,” is back in the spotlight in Shenzhen, China. The Finals return to Asia for the first time since 1989, with Townsend lining up for Team USA alongside Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, McCartney Kessler, and Hailey Baptiste.

But ahead of the USA’s quarterfinal tie, Townsend stir

See Full Page