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Taylor Townsend's all-black US Open outfit for Sabalenka clash sparks mixed reactions: 'What is she wearing?'

Taylor Townsend stepped out in an all-black outfit for her walk-on, sparking mixed reactions from fans online.

Updated on: Sep 6, 2026, 22:26:47 IST
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Taylor Townsend is taking on Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open fourth round today at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, New York. She stepped out in an all-black outfit for her walk-on, sparking mixed reactions from fans online.

Taylor Townsend of the United States walks onto the court prior to their Women's Singles Fourth Round match against Aryna Sabalenka on Day Eight of the 2026 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Getty Images via AFP)
Taylor Townsend of the United States walks onto the court prior to their Women's Singles Fourth Round match against Aryna Sabalenka on Day Eight of the 2026 US Open at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Getty Images via AFP)

One user commented, “What is that thing Townsend is wearing on court?”

Another wrote, “Taylor Townsend just walked onto the court at the US Open dressed like a Grizzly bear. What is this about? Osaka started this. What are they trying to achieve? Stick to tennis. Go on your fashion walks elsewhere. Pathetic.”

A third user posted, “Taylor Townsend wearing black for Sabalenka’s title defense funeral.”

One fan wrote, "OK, I love this."

Another person added, "Townsend walked out with her “Blackout” ensemble. Sabalenka was not amused."

Taylor Townsend US Open outfits

Taylor Townsend has debuted a new custom outfit for each round of this year’s tournament. The looks are designed by Anthony Lattimore, with creative direction from stylist J. Bolin.

After Townsend defeated Poland's Maja Chwalinska on Aug. 31, Bolin revealed that more looks were ready if she continued advancing in the tournament, including designs for a potential championship match.

Speaking to Marie Claire, Bolin said Townsend wanted outfits with movement. The designs combine sculptural details, beaded fringe and stretchy, supportive materials to create a mix of fashion, fluidity and functionality.

Also Read: When Taylor Townsend opened up about her weight-loss journey and years of systemic body shaming

Who is Taylor Townsend?

Taylor Townsend, born April 16, 1996, in Chicago, is an American professional tennis player best known for her success in doubles. A former world No. 1 junior and 2012 ITF Junior World Champion, she turned pro as one of the sport’s highly touted young prospects.

A left-handed, aggressive all-court player, Townsend has won three Grand Slam doubles titles: the 2024 Wimbledon, 2025 Australian Open and 2026 French Open, all alongside Kateřina Siniaková. She has reached a career-high singles ranking of No. 46 and briefly held the WTA doubles No. 1 ranking in 2025. She is currently ranked No. 2 in doubles.

Townsend is also a mother to her son, Adyn, who was born in 2021.

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  • Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan

    Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.Read More

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