Serena bolsters Fed line-up

Williams agrees to team up with United States team in Calabria

Last updated: 28th October 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Serena bolsters Fed line-up

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Serena Williams has agreed to represent the United States against Italy in the final of the Fed Cup next month.

The Americans, who are looking to lift the trophy for the first time since 2000, welcome the current world number two back into the fold for the first time in two years.

Williams, who was part of the successful 1999 side, will join 18-year-old Melanie Oudin and doubles partners Liezel Huber and Alexa Glatch in the match in Calabria starting on November 7.

"I am very excited that Serena wants to represent her country," said captain Mary Jo Fernandez.

"You want to have your best players competing, and Serena is the best in the world."

Williams is taking part in this week's season-ending WTA Chamionship in Doha, where victory will see her finish the year at the top of the rankings.

Meanwhile, world number 11 Flavia Pennetta will take her place in the Italy team after recovering from a knee injury.

Pennetta will spearhead the team's bid for a second Fed Cup title alongside Francesca Schiavone, while Roberta Vinci, who has never lost a doubles match in 13 rubbers, will team up with Sara Errani.