Kateřina Siniaková and Taylor Townsend’s Journey to Tennis History

Editor’s note: This article belongs to the Winning Style series, exploring methods used by elite tennis players to stay at the top of their game.

NEW YORK — Taylor Townsend and Kateřina Siniaková had been tennis teammates since spring 2024. But it was not until a practice session in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, during the 2025 WTA Tour Finals that Townsend truly appreciated her partner’s abilities. By then, they had already secured two Grand Slam doubles titles and had reached the finals of the 2025 U.S. Open.

Adrenaline and competitive focus often obscure one’s perception on the tennis court. Townsend’s less pressured moment allowed her to see the artistic athleticism of Siniaková’s game. She noted the precision in Siniaková’s footwork, her sharp ball attacks, and her smooth recoveries. “The way she did this drill?” Townsend remarked to reporters. “Now I see why she’s the best in the world.”

Siniaková and Townsend have enjoyed their success largely away from the singles-focused spotlight. Nonetheless, their recent U.S. Open victory over the American duo Robin Montgomery and Ashlyn Krueger, with a 5-7, 6-0, 6-2 score, was a milestone. At 30, Townsend achieved a career Grand Slam, an accomplishment only 18 women have reached in the Open Era since 1968.

Siniaková achieved another career Grand Slam, making her the ninth woman to do so twice with different partners. She first accomplished this feat alongside Barbora Krejčíková.

Winning the U.S. Open alongside Townsend brought Siniaková her 12th Grand Slam doubles title and her 39th overall in women’s doubles. Before Friday’s final, their record as a pair was 80-16, which has now improved to 81-16, with a 7-0 record in finals for 2026.

Siniaková expressed gratitude towards Townsend during their trophy presentation. “Big thanks to Taylor,” she said. “You really fought for this one.” To place Siniaková’s accomplishments in perspective, only eight women have captured at least 12 Grand Slam doubles titles since the Open Era began. Martina Navratilova, with 31 titles, holds the record.

Siniaková also stands out from other top doubles players due to her achievements in singles. She has been a top-75 singles player since 2014 and maintained a top-50 ranking since 2023. Her singles career influences her tournament schedule and training.

Her highest singles achievement came in 2019 at the French Open, reaching the fourth round. Despite her singles pursuits, Siniaková thrives in doubles with her partners. Her first Grand Slam title was the French Open in 2018 with Krejčíková.

Her aspiration to be the best, instilled by her father, drives her motivation. “Once I won one, I wanted more,” she shared. Siniaková sought Townsend as a doubles partner in 2024 after Storm Sanders was injured. Despite Townsend’s commitment to another partner, she accepted Siniaková’s invitation.

Their success stems from both their on-court talent and off-court connection. Townsend has visited Siniaková’s family in the Czech Republic, and Siniaková has visited her in Atlanta. Their growing friendship enriches their partnership.

The duo’s mutual understanding off the court translates into seamless teamwork in matches. Townsend mentioned the cultural differences but noted their shared values and alignment on many subjects.

Townsend’s evolving connection extends to learning Czech words. Her five-year-old son supports her journey, playfully suggesting she pursue another career after watching her matches.

Their presence at the U.S. Open final symbolizes the blend of shared ambition and friendship. Siniaková and Townsend’s achievements mark a significant chapter in tennis history.

The Winning Style series is sponsored by Ralph Lauren. The Athletic maintains editorial independence, with sponsors having no influence on content.