Mirra Andreeva crashed out of the US Open in a stunning third-round upset, falling to world No. 139 Taylor Townsend 5:7, 2:6. The 18-year-old Russian, who entered the tournament as the world's fifth-ranked player, appeared visibly frustrated throughout the match.
The defeat marks Andreeva's second loss this year to an opponent outside the top 100, following her quarterfinal exit at Roland Garros to Lois Boisson.
Before the tournament, oddsmakers had considered Andreeva among the favorites to lift the trophy, giving her 11.00 odds to win. Only Coco Gauff (6.50), Aryna Sabalenka (4.00), and Iga Swiatek (3.50) were given better chances.
Interestingly, the US Open had been the only Grand Slam where Andreeva hadn't reached the second week – a streak that now continues after this disappointing performance.
The young Russian's psychological fragility was on full display during the match. She struck herself with her racket in frustration during the first set and was seen fighting back tears in the second. Though less dramatic than her outbursts at Roland Garros, her emotional struggles clearly affected her play.
For Taylor Townsend, this victory represents just her third career win over a top-10 opponent and her first since spring 2023. The American now advances to the round of 16, where she'll face Barbora Krejcikova.
Off the court, Andreeva has faced criticism for liking anti-Ukrainian social media posts since Russia's full-scale invasion. Ukrainian player Dayana Yastremska previously requested the WTA impose sanctions for such behavior, but the organization declined to intervene.
Can Townsend continue her unexpected run at the US Open? The American certainly has momentum on her side after dispatching one of the tournament's biggest favorites.
