Wed Feb 25 20:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Gracheva Favored to Win Against Townsend in ATX Open First Round
The Story:
Taylor Townsend is set to face Varvara Gracheva in the first round of the ATX Open at Westwood Country Club in Austin, USA. Townsend enters the match after a less-than-stellar performance at the Australian Open, where she qualified as a lucky loser and lost in the first round. Gracheva, seeded fifth, has shown stronger form recently, reaching the third round in Doha after qualifying and defeating Linda Noskova. While Townsend won their previous encounter at the 2023 US Open, Gracheva is favored to win this match based on recent performance and match experience.
Key Points:
- The match is between Taylor Townsend and Varvara Gracheva in the first round of the ATX Open.
- Townsend entered the Australian Open as a lucky loser and lost in the first round.
- Gracheva is seeded fifth and reached the third round in Doha.
- Townsend beat Gracheva in their only previous meeting at the 2023 US Open.
- Gracheva is currently favored to win the match.
Key Takeaways:
- Varvara Gracheva’s recent form makes her the favorite in this match.
- Taylor Townsend needs to overcome her inconsistent performance.
- The previous match between the two at the 2023 US Open provides Townsend with a confidence boost but may not be indicative of the current match dynamic.
- The ATX Open is a significant opportunity for both players to gain momentum.
First Piper 