Five things to know about US Open qualifier Townsend

American Taylor Townsend is making waves at this year's US Open after knocking out Wimbledon champion Simona Halep on Thursday, 6-2, 3-6, 7-6 (4). Here are the Top 5 things to know about the rising star.

1

Townsend defeated two-time Grand Slam champion Halep to advance into the third round at this year's US Open.

2

In May, the  23-year-old left-hander won the Charleston W100 ITF for the second-straight year, defeating up-and-coming Whitney Osuigwe in the final. Townsend would also go on to capture the doubles event with partner Asia Muhammad.

3

The American has showcased her talent since her junior tennis days. Townsend captured the junior Australian Open title in both singles and doubles in 2012.

4

The world No. 116 was the junior ITF World Champion in 2012. At that year's champions' gala, she attended the champions dinner where she snapped a photo with one of the sports best Roger Federer.

5

Thursday's triumph over Halep marked the first American player since Serena Williams (in 2008) to knock off the defending Wimbledon champ at the US Open. She last reached the third round of a major at the French Open in 2014, which was her debut.

Townsend will face Romania Sorona Cirstea on Saturday for a spot in her first Grand Slam fourth round.