ROME –- After winning her maiden Grand Slam title in New York on Saturday, Flavia Pennetta announced that this season would be her last in professional tennis. The Italian beat her compatriot Roberta Vinci 7-6, 6-2 to become only the second Italian to win one of tennis’ major events.

  The final, which marked the first time that two Italians had made it to the last two of a Grand Slam tournament, was watched by Italian Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi. Pennetta claimed the opening set in a fiercely contested tiebreak but her opponent, who had knocked out Serena Williams in the semi-finals, had little answer in the final set.

  Vinci, who is ranked 43^rd in the world, provided one of sport’s greatest upsets on Friday when she defeated Williams in three sets. Serena had been on course to land the fabled Grand Slam of major tennis tournaments having already won the Australian Open, the French Open and Wimbledon in 2015. Despite her obvious disappointment following her final defeat, Vinci congratulated her compatriot on the historic achievement. 

  "I am really happy for Flavia. It's tough to play against a player who you have known for a long time,” said Vinci. "I tried to play my best, but Flavia played unbelievably and I have to say congrats to her."

  The 26^th seed Pennetta beat the world number 2 Simona Halep in the semi-final and continued her fine form to win her maiden Grand Slam at the age of 33. The Italian announced her retirement in an interview immediately after her victory, but acknowledged that she would continue to play until the end of the current season.

  "One month ago I decided that this is the way I would say goodbye to tennis,” said Flushing Meadows newest female champion. "This is my last and I couldn't think of finishing in a better way. It was a really hard decision but I'm really happy I did it. I'm proud of myself."