Finally, Sharapova to make Fed Cup debut

The 20-year-old will be the star attraction as Russia take on Israel

PARIS: Maria Sharapova will sprinkle some desperately-needed stardust on the Fed Cup this weekend as the 45-year-old tournament reels from a succession of big-name absentees.

Sharapova, fresh from her first Australian Open victory, makes her long-awaited debut for defending champions Russia against Israel in an appearance which should also guarantee her a place at the Beijing Olympics.

But the wear-and-tear of the WTA Tour, as well as Grand Slam and personal priorities, means that other ties have been stripped of their potential crowd-pullers.

The USA are missing Serena and Venus Williams for the home tie against Germany. France go to China without former world number one Amelie Mauresmo, Wimbledon runner-up Marion Bartoli as well as Tatiana Golovin.

Sharapova will be centre of attention as Russia begins their campaign to win a fourth Fed Cup in five years. The 20-year-old, the world’s richest sportswoman, has been selected before only to pull out through injury, much to the irritation of her teammates who have been vocal in their criticism of their high-profile compatriot.

But Sharapova insists there are no personal issues despite the frosty reception she received when she supported Russia in last year’s final against Italy on the Moscow sidelines.