Maria Sharapova confirmed over the weekend that she plans to come to Israel next month with the Russian national team for its Fed Cup match here. "Yes, I'm coming for sure," the world No. 5 said. "This year the Fed Cup is one of my goals."
When asked about Israeli fans, Sharapova responded jokingly, "I hope to conquer them. I've always loved the Olympics and other events representing my country," she added, though until last year she consistently refused to take part in the Fed Cup. "We're coming in as favorites and we're expected to win, but it won't be hard facing the home crowd."
Russia boasts eight women in the top 30 in the world, so there won't be any problems assembling a team. Still, No. 2 Svetlana Kuznetsova - who was upset yesterday by Poland's Agnieszka Radwanska - No. 11 Elena Dementieva and No. 14 Nadia Petrova said during the Open that they don't plan on traveling to Israel.
No. 6 Anna Chakvetadze, who fell yesterday to her countrywoman, No. 27 Maria Kirilenko, is also doubtful. "I still don't know if I'll come," Chakvetadze said. "For now we know only that Sharapova and No. 16 Dinara Safina will go for sure."
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