In an electrifying quarterfinal match at the 2025 Citi DC Open, Taylor Townsend and Zhang Shuai stunned Venus Williams and Hailey Baptiste in the women’s doubles event. After two gripping sets, Townsend and Shuai took control of the super tiebreak, winning 10-6 to end the run of the Williams-Baptiste duo in this tournament.
This loss marked a significant moment for Venus Williams, the 45-year-old tennis veteran, as it brought her doubles campaign at the Citi DC Open to a close. The match drew attention for Townsend’s aggressive play and strategic prowess, which were highlighted during a live broadcast by the Tennis Channel. Townsend expressed her excitement after the victory, posting on Instagram, This was lit ❤️.
Previous Wins Propel Townsend and Shuai Closer to Finals
Before their notable win over Williams and Baptiste, Townsend and Shuai had defeated Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Cristina Bucsa, underscoring their momentum throughout the tournament. Their steady performance positions them among the top contenders to reach the DC Open finals, drawing growing anticipation from fans and analysts alike.
Townsend’s Dual Success in Doubles and Singles
Townsend is not only making waves in doubles but also demonstrating impressive skill in singles play. She recently overcame a challenging match against Tatjana Maria in the opening rounds, displaying resilience and technique. Her next opponent will be the No. 6 seed, Sofia Kenin, promising another intense contest for Townsend as she strives to advance further in the tournament.
Looking Ahead: Mixed Doubles Ambitions at the US Open
Townsend plans to join forces with rising star Ben Shelton in the mixed doubles at the upcoming US Open. Despite facing criticism about the early mixing of events and the sizeable prize money involved, Townsend remains confident in the new format and dismisses skepticism from detractors. Fans eagerly await how this confident pair, who previously reached the US Open semifinals in 2023, will perform this year.
As the Citi DC Open continues, Townsend’s energetic presence and determined play keep her firmly in the spotlight. Her victories over established names like Venus Williams and Hailey Baptiste reflect both her talent and tenacity, signaling a promising trajectory in this tournament and beyond.