Image courtesy of thenextreporter.com

The last event of the annual Grand Slam series started today in New York City. And last year, Melanie Oudin, all of a sudden and completely unexpectedly, played in the quarterfinals, as the youngest female player since Serena Williams in 1999.

The expectations are high and today she had to overcome the first hurdle in her opening match at the 2010 U.S. Open against qualifier Olga Savchuck of Ukraine. Oudin won relatively easily in two straight sets 6-3 and 6-0.

Melanie Oudin is currently ranked 43 in the world and she played solid tennis all throughout the match, compiling 20-3 winners and visibly pumped-up.

Last year, Oudin ousted Maria Sharapova and Elena Dementieva on her way to the quarters. Ever since, though, she’s had a hard time living up to the expectations. However, she recently found her way back to her game and based on today’s performance she can go with confidence into the upcoming rounds.

Related posts:

1. Melanie Oudin defeated in opening round of 2010 Pilot Pen
2. Robin Soderling and his 2010 U.S. Open first round struggle
3. Samantha Stosur advances to second round of 2010 Pilot Pen Open
4. Kim Clijsters takes first hurdle at 2010 U.S. Open
5. 2010 Mercury Insurance Open Results