By Lisa Bennett, NOW Communications Director
Have you been watching U.S. Open tennis? If you have, you’ve probably caught at least one of Melanie Oudin’s exciting victories. Oudin is the 17-year-old U.S. player who has shaken things up by advancing past three formidable, top-seeded women’s players. And she’s won all three of these matches despite losing the first set each time.
Her positive attitude, exemplified by the word “believe” stamped on her funky sneakers, and her determined play have made her the new darling of tennis; even the news media have been unable to resist reporting on her remarkable run. She is an amazing role model for young girls AND boys, and she’s yet another excuse to applaud the advancements of women in athletics made thanks to Title IX.
Oudin’s made it to the quarterfinals at the U.S. Open — the youngest U.S. woman in ten years to make it that far. What a great boost for the sport! Her match is tomorrow, and she has scored the marquee 7:00 pm time slot (ET) on Arthur Ashe court. Cheer on Oudin on ESPN 2 (check your local listings for the exact time in your area).