What a stunner!

How thrilling it is to see young American, Melanie Oudin, in action. I just finished watching her play -- and beat -- Elena Dementieva, who is seeded fourth at the U.S. Open. The 17-year-old, 5'6" Oudin, who hails from Marietta, Georgia, is incredibly match-tough and seems to love the big stage. She beat Jelena Jankovic at Wimbledon earlier this year.

Oudin lost the first (5-7) set and came back to win the second 6-4. Oudin is ranked 70 in the world (and the third ranked American woman after #2 Serena and #3 Venus), but she's coming up. Oudin had her thigh taped, and it gave her trouble as she headed toward the finish line in the third set. At one point, she was obviously in so much pain she was trying to defend against tears. However, she was able to keep Dementievia on the ropes (the Russian was playing defensively but not poorly the whole time) and persevered, winning the final point on an ace and the third set at 6-3. A totally victory. Sharapova awaits in the next round. In any event, we've got a new exciting American woman who seems likely to rise through the ranks. At last!