On a day that saw the end of Andy Roddick's professional tennis career, the cream at the 2012 U.S. Open is rising to the top as names like Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova and Andy Murray advanced during Wednesday's action at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing, N.Y.

Roddick fell to Juan Martin del Potro, 6-7 (1-7), 7-6 (7-4), 6-2, 6-4, ending his professional career at just 30 years old.

Serena Williams took out Ana Ivanovic, 6-1, 6-3, advancing to face Italy's Sara Errani in the semifinals.

Maria Sharapova beat Marion Bartoli, 6-3, 3-6, 6-4, to advance to the semifinals, taking on Victoria Azaranka in the next round.

Andy Murray outlasted Marin Cilic, 3-6, 7-6 (4), 6-2, 6-0, and will face the winner between Roger Federer and Tomas Berdych in the semifinals.

For more updates and detailed analysis of the 2012 U.S. Open, make your way over to SB Nation's dedicated tennis hub.