Maria Sharapova confirms Fed Cup appearance

Maria Sharapova has confirmed that she will represent Russia in their Fed Cup round one match against Spain in February.

With the Australian Open due to take place in January, doubts had arose as to whether Sharapova would appear for her country.

However, the 24-year-old has revealed that she will be part of the team that takes to the court in Moscow.

"I have fours weeks in the Australian summer and then a week in the Moscow winter," Sharapova told her official website. "Not sure if everyone knows, but I will be playing Fed Cup for Russia vs. Spain after Australia.

"So glad we get to play in Moscow!"

Sharapova is currently ranked number four in the world rankings.