Reigning Wimbledon champion Simona Halep crashed out in the US Open second round Thursday with a 2-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7/4) loss to American world number 116 Taylor Townsend. Fourth seed Halep suffered a third straight early exit in New York, having been knocked out in the opening round in 2017 and 2018. Townsend, 23, equalled her best run at a Grand Slam after also reaching round three on her main draw debut at Roland Garros in 2014. "This means a lot. It has been a long journey," Townsend said, wiping away tears.

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