Flavia Pennetta to retire following US Open victory

Flavia Pennetta has announced her retirement just minutes after winning the US Open.

The 33-year-old had previously been beyond the fourth round of a Grand Slam just once, and becomes the oldest player to win her first Grand Slam after a 7-6 6-2 victory over fellow Italian Roberta Vinci.

"Before I started this tournament , one month ago, I took a big decision in my life," Pennetta told ESPN.

"This is the way I would like to say goodbye to tennis. It's what all the players think they want to do. Going out after this kind of big trophy.

"This was my last match in New York and I can't think of a better way."

The victory has ensured that Pennetta will bow out of the sport with a career-high ranking of eighth in the world.