Taylor Townsend isn’t having the smoothest time right now. The American, who landed in Shenzhen, China for the Billie Jean King Cup quarterfinal tie with Team USA, kicked off her campaign with controversy instead of cheers. On September 16, the tennis mom gave some blunt feedback about the local cuisine at dinner. Albeit she apologized the very next day, it may take much more to win back favor.

On Thursday, as the doubles World No.1 walked into the Shenzhen Bay Sports Center Arena alongside Jessica Pegula, the reception was anything but warm. Townsend was met with loud boos and jeers from the crowd. She didn’t react. Instead, she carried on calmly, heading to the bench, unpacking her kit, and preparing for the match.

For the unversed, two days ago Townsend set off sparks on Instagram

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