Pennetta, at 33 the oldest first-time Grand Slam finalist in the Open era, on Saturday became the first Italian to win the US Open women's crown with an efficient 7-6 (4), 6-2 victory over compatriot and childhood friend Roberta Vinci.
Defending champion Novak Djokovic could barely conceal his delight on Thursday after avoiding the elephant in the room - Olympic champion Andy Murray - in the draw for the US Open.
Rafael Nadal withdrew from the US Open on Wednesday increasing concerns about the seriousness of the knee injury plaguing the 11-times grand slam winner.