Melanie Oudin announces retirement

Remember that plucky American teenager who back at the 2009 US Open, upset a trio of accomplished Russians – including Maria Sharapova – to reach the women’s singles quarterfinals?

Sadly, eight years later and after a multitude of struggles, Melanie Oudin announced her retirement Friday.

Oudin, who turns 26 next month and currently is ranked No. 428, made the announcement on Facebook.

“Unfortunately, since the end of 2012, I have been struck with numerous health issues and injuries. I would work so hard to come back after being out, and then something else would happen. It has definitely taken a toll on me mentally and physically over the last five years or so.
“Competing with the best in the world requires your absolute best and without being 100% mentally and physically it is very difficult. After much thought, I have decided to make the difficult decision to retire from professional tennis.
“Tennis has given me so much and I will always be grateful. It wasn’t exactly the entire career I had dreamed of, but in life things don’t always go as planned.”

The American peaked at No. 31 in the rankings in 2010; before the US Open run, she had also reached the fourth round at Wimbledon.

She won the 2011 US Open mixed doubles title with Jack Sock.