Serena Williams hails "amazing" Andy Roddick

Serena Williams has paid tribute to her fellow American tennis player Andy Roddick.

Roddick, 30, confirmed earlier this evening that the ongoing US Open would be his last tournament as a professional.

Having grown up with Roddick, Williams has urged the home crowd to get behind their man when he takes on Bernard Tomic tomorrow night.

"I've known Andy since we were 10," she told ESPN. "He told me a while ago and I was hoping that he would change his mind. We need to give him so much support.

"He's been amazing for American tennis and sport."

Williams was speaking after her victory over Spaniard Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez on the Arthur Ashe Court.