What was immediately apparent was the difference in height. Seventeen-year-old Melanie Oudin is 5′6″ (1.68 meters). Her opponent at the U.S. Open was 6′2″ (1.88 meters).
Maria Sharapova towered over the young American from Georgia, and had a decided advantage in experience. Despite that, Melanie Oudin persevered and eliminated Maria Sharapova:
3-6; 6-4 and 7-5.
Maria Sharapova did not help herself by committing 21 double faults. The problems with her serve, since returning from shoulder surgery, were part of her difficulties with the young American teen.
Oudin played with poise and nerve of a high-wire walker. She used some drop shots that showed a court savvy beyond her years, and has wonderful court coverage. She is very quick to the ball and has exceptional footwork.
The tennis fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium supported Oudin and, after the match, she thanked the crowd: “Thank you so much for cheering for me. I just kept trying as hard as I could… I just can’t believe it.”
Kudos to Melanie Oudin on a stellar performance!
Catherine Forsythe
link: On a Day of Near Upsets, Oudin Delivers
link: 17-year-old Oudin upsets Sharapova at US Open
link: Teen Oudin shocks error-prone Sharapova
link: Fans embrace Oudin as new Open darling
[Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images]
[...] wins over Elana Dementieva and Maria Sharapova have thrust Melanie Oudin into the media spotlight. It is a story of a young American teenager battling and beating established tennis stars. It is [...]