Sharapova confirms its participation in the Fed Cup

The world number four tennis player, Maria Sharapova, has committed to play in the first round of Fed Cup against Spain, qualifying will take place in Russia on 4 and 5 February.

"I do not know if everyone knows, but I'll play Fed Cup with Russia against Spain after (Australia Open)," the Russian said in its official website (www.mariasharapova.com). "I'm so glad we'll play in Moscow! I have four weeks of the Australian summer and after a week in the winter of Moscow."

Sharapova has not played for his country since losing to France's Virginie Razzano in straight sets in the quarterfinals of the Fed Cup last February, before being replaced in the next singles match a day later.

Russia beat France 3-2, then crushed Italy 5-0 in the semifinals and lost 3-2 to the Czech Republic in Moscow in the final last month.