Peyton Stearns secured her second WTA title after defeating fellow American Taylor Townsend in straight sets during the ATX Open final held in Austin, Texas, on Sunday. Despite the straight-set scoreline, Stearns faced stiff resistance as Townsend, making her debut in a WTA singles final, challenged her throughout the match.
Stearns, who has a deep connection with Austin as a former Texas Longhorns player, drew significant support from the crowd. Before delivering her victory speech, the on-court presenter highlighted Stearns’ wish earlier in the tournament for a Longhorn to capture the title—a hope she successfully realized.
Yeah, from the first match, I said it would be nice for a Longhorn to win this tournament finally. Yeah, it’s kinda nice. I wanna congratulate Taylor. You had an amazing week this week. It’s not over. She’s got doubles after this. Hopefully, y’all can stick around and cheer her on. That would be awesome,
Stearns said.
I also want to thank Christo for this amazing tournament. I know you’re running around like crazy this week. So, hopefully it’s kind of chill from now on till next year at least 125. Also the Sheffields thanks so much for everything y’all do you guys were coming out and supporting this whole week So you guys are awesome and thank you,
she added.
Also, thanks to the top sponsors, you know this event wouldn’t be possible without y’all, and thanks to my team over there. It’s a fairly new one, but I would say the third week together isn’t too bad,
Stearns concluded.
Following her win, Stearns was honored with a cowboy hat, symbolizing the Texas spirit, alongside the tournament trophy, 250 WTA ranking points, and $37,390 in prize money.
Taylor Townsend Reflects on Journey After Austin Final Loss
Following tradition, runner-up Taylor Townsend addressed the crowd before Stearns’ acceptance speech. Townsend expressed heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering support from her family, coaching team, and tournament organizers, emphasizing the significance of reaching her first WTA singles final after many years on tour.
Thank you to my family over here. The Texas Townsends, my godmother’s over there. Supercoach AJ, he got me through this week. I just feel really fortunate. I’m really blessed to be standing here, after 15 years on tour, to be accomplishing this feat. I’m gonna continue to build on it. I’m not done,
Townsend said.
Townsend rebounded from her singles defeat by capturing the doubles title later in the day, partnering with Storm Hunter to defeat Eudice Chong and Liang En-shuo 6-3, 6-4. Their victory added a significant highlight to Townsend’s strong showing in Austin.
Next Steps: Preparing for Indian Wells Tournament
Both Stearns and Townsend are now setting their sights on the upcoming Indian Wells Open. Stearns will begin her campaign directly in the main draw, while Townsend faces the challenge of progressing through the qualifiers to join the competition’s top-seeded players. Their performances at Indian Wells will be closely watched as both aim to build momentum for the rest of the season.
Peyton Stearns after beating Townsend in Austin final
“You said you believed a Longhorn should win this title. Here you are.”
Peyton: “Yeah, from the first match I said it would be nice for a Longhorn to finally win this tournament. Yeah, it’s kinda nice 😂. I wanna… pic.twitter.com/okEWKOpHoE
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 1, 2026
Taylor Townsend after losing to Peyton Stearns in the Austin final:
“Thank you to my family over here. The Texas Townsends, my godmother’s over there. Supercoach AJ, he got me through this week. I just feel really fortunate. I’m really blessed to be standing here, after 15 years… pic.twitter.com/pOEJevaR0d
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) March 1, 2026
