Comeback story

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After bottoming out in the mid-'90s, Jennifer Capriati made a dramatic return to the WTA Tour top 10 in 2001, when she won two Grand Slams and authored arguably the best comeback story in tennis.

But Billie Jean King offers a comeback story she says is more compelling.

"Chanda Rubin has overcome a number of operations and obstacles, and has had a unbelievable run to get back into the top 10," said King, the U.S. Fed Cup captain. "Her passion and perseverance and success are one of the great stories in our sport. She is an inspiration."

This weekend, area tennis fans have a chance to see the talented and tenacious Rubin.

Rubin, ranked eighth in the world, will lead the U.S. Fed Cup team against Italy in quarterfinal play today at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center in Northwest.

Rubin, 27, is eager to play, as King can testify.

"Chanda called me 9:30 p.m., a day before the names had to be turned in," King said. Rubin along with Alexandra Stevenson, the 28th ranked singles player in the world, were added to the U.S. team roster in place of Venus Williams and Monica Seles, who both withdrew because of injuries.

The Fed Cup is a chance for Rubin, Stevenson, 18th ranked Meghann Shaughnessy and No. 26 Lisa Raymond to make career statements.

And Rubin is ready for the challenge.