Sharapova to play Fed Cup for Russia

Maria Sharapova will play for Russia against Spain in the first round of next year's Fed Cup, the first time she has played for her nation in the top team event of women's tennis.

Sharapova, who won the U.S. Open last month and Wimbledon in 2004, said on her Web site Tuesday she will be available for the matchup in Moscow on April 21-22.

"I'm really excited to make my first appearance in Fed Cup for my country, and it is great to be playing the tie in Moscow," she said. "Hopefully, myself and the team will put up a strong showing against Spain."

Russia, which won the Fed Cup in 2004 and '05, lost to eventual finalist Belgium in this year's quarterfinals.