Taylor Townsend’s tennis journey has been closely intertwined with Donald Young and his family from the very beginning. Thanks to Young’s influence, Townsend, originally a right-handed player, transitioned to playing tennis with her left hand, just like Young. The connection goes deep, as Young’s mother played doubles with Townsend’s mother, and Young’s father was Townsend’s first coach. Growing up in Chicago as fellow Black tennis players, Young instilled in Townsend the belief that a professional tennis career was attainable.
Townsend and Young have reached the U.S. Open mixed doubles final, a significant moment as it marks the 35-year-old Young’s retirement from tennis after the championship match. Their journey to the final included a victory over the No. 8-seeded team in straight sets. Reflecting on their partnership, Townsend acknowledged Young’s pivotal role in her tennis career, expressing gratitude for his impact on her journey.
While Young had a promising start as the top-ranked junior player in 2005, experiencing highs like winning junior Wimbledon and the Australian Open, both he and Townsend faced challenges on the professional tour in subsequent years. Despite setbacks, their resilience and determination continued to inspire others, particularly within the Black tennis community. Townsend highlighted the importance of representation and how seeing individuals like Young succeed motivated her own aspirations.
Returning to the tour in 2022 after becoming a mother, Townsend’s career has been on an upward trajectory, achieving success in both singles and doubles competitions. In contrast, Young transitioned to professional pickleball after facing difficulties on the tennis tour. Despite not reaching the stardom initially predicted for him, Young remains proud of his career and its impact, choosing to focus on the positive aspects of his journey.
Their partnership in the U.S. Open mixed doubles draw, supported by a wild card from the USTA for Young’s farewell, has proven to be fruitful. With their unique left-handed playing styles, the duo presents a challenging matchup for opponents. Both Townsend and Young, who started their tennis journeys as right-handers, adjusted their playing styles under the guidance of Young’s family to become successful left-handed players.
As they prepare to face the No. 3-seeded Italian team in the upcoming match, Townsend and Young have an opportunity to create another lasting memory together. Despite the outcome, both players are excited to share this experience with each other, reflecting on the bond that has shaped their careers and lives.