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AP National Sports

Americans on the comeback: Kenin and Townsend produce upset wins at Italian Open

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Published 5:34 am

By ANDREW DAMPF
AP Sports Writer

ROME (AP) — Two Americans who tasted success at a young age and then struggled to maintain their level produced upset victories at the Italian Open. Sofia Kenin beat the reigning Australian Open champion and second-ranked Aryna Sabalenka 7-6 (4), 6-2 and Taylor Townsend eliminated third-ranked Jessica Pegula 6-2, 3-6, 6-3. Kenin has struggled with injuries since winning the Australian Open in 2020 while Townsend was once a child prodigy who is now coming back from maternity leave. Kenin is ranked No. 134 while Townsend is No. 168 and had to go through qualifying. Townsend is also celebrating a career-high ranking of No. 6 in doubles this week.

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