When Jessica Pegula wanted to celebrate her former doubles partner’s incredible achievement, she knew exactly which memory to share. The American star posted a throwback photo from their early days grinding through ITF tournaments, congratulating Taylor Townsend on becoming the new WTA World No. 1 in doubles and making tennis history as the first mother to reach that milestone.
How Did Jessica Pegula and Taylor Townsend’s Journey Begin on the ITF Circuit?
The nostalgic moment came as Pegula, who recently exited in the opening round at the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington, D.C., reflected on their humble beginnings. She shared a special photo on her Instagram stories that captured a simpler time when both players were chasing their dreams on smaller stages.
The image, taken after the pair won the $25,000 ITF/USTA Sumter 2 tournament in South Carolina, shows a young Pegula and Townsend holding their trophy alongside Townsend’s mini goldendoodle, Winston. Pegula’s caption perfectly captured the journey they’ve both traveled: “Congrats on the 🏆 and number 1. Throwback to us grinding the 25k in Sumter. We turned out ok @tay_taytownsend.”
Townsend reshared the story and responded with her characteristic humor: “Hahaha traded Winston for a human child @jpegula,” referencing her now four-year-old son Adyn.
This exchange perfectly captures how far both players have come. The 29-year-old Townsend became the 13th American to hold the WTA No. 1 spot in doubles, ending Katerina Siniakova’s 46-week reign at the top. However, her achievement carries even greater significance beyond the ranking itself.
Townsend made history as the first mother to reach the pinnacle of doubles after giving birth to her son, Adyn Aubrey, in March 2021. Since returning to competitive tennis in April 2022, the Chicago native has steadily climbed back up the rankings, building an impressive championship resume while partnering with various players along the way.
What Made Townsend’s Washington DC Campaign So Dominant?
At this year’s DC Open, Townsend partnered with China’s Zhang Shuai and delivered a masterclass performance throughout the tournament. The duo powered through the draw while dropping just one set on their way to claiming the title.
Seeded second, Townsend and Zhang started their campaign by defeating Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Cristina Bucșa in the opening round. They followed that victory by taking down the experienced duo of Hailey Baptiste and Venus Williams in straight sets, showing their ability to handle different playing styles.
Doubles champions in DC 🏆
Taylor Townsend and Shuai Zhang defeat Dolehide/Kenin in straight sets to capture the 2025 title!#MubadalaCitiDCOpen pic.twitter.com/YnOlBUpQKX
— Mubadala Citi DC Open (@mubadalacitidc) July 26, 2025
After receiving a semifinal walkover, they saved their most impressive performance for when it mattered most. In the championship match, they dominated the final, crushing Caroline Dolehide and Sofia Kenin 6-1, 6-1 in a display of pure doubles excellence.
The victory marked Townsend’s 10th career doubles title and showcased her versatility, as it was her sixth championship with a different partner. This ability to adapt and succeed with various playing partners has become a hallmark of her doubles success.
Beyond her doubles triumph, Townsend also made waves in the singles competition at the same tournament. Starting her journey as a qualifier, she proved she belongs on the big stage by securing notable wins over Tatjana Maria and No. 6 seed Sofia Kenin. Her impressive singles run finally ended in the quarterfinals against Canada’s Leylah Fernandez, but not before she had reminded everyone of her all-around tennis abilities.
MORE: Taylor Townsend Fights Back Tears During Emotional Speech as Son Adyn Joins Her on Court After Washington DC Triumph