WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (AP) - Sloane Stephens is pulling out of the U.S. Fed Cup team’s upcoming first-round matches against Italy because of a strained abdominal muscle.
Melanie Oudin replaces Stephens on the U.S. roster for the Feb. 9-10 matches on indoor red clay at Rimini, Italy.
Stephens, currently ranked a career-high 17th, was hurt during her run to the Australian Open semifinals last month. She says she’s “terribly disappointed” to miss the Fed Cup.
Oudin, a 2009 U.S. Open quarterfinalist, joins Fed Cup rookies Varvara Lepchenko and Jamie Hampton, plus doubles specialist Liezel Huber.
The highest-ranked American, Serena Williams, hurt her back in a quarterfinal loss to Stephens in Melbourne.
Italy is expected to be led by Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci.
'Your papers, please' must never be heard in America
Independent voices from the TWT Communities
Born in 1930 in rural Missouri, Charles Vandegriffe, Sr., brings his time and place to the Communities.
Join the Communities and submit your column in response to one written, or on something totally new and unique. We want to hear from you
Entering the world of first time parents, there are lots of secrets unveiled.
Take a look at our pet friendly reviews and travel tips or find the best vacation deals and activities compiled by the The Washington Times Communities experts.
Benghazi: The anatomy of a scandal
13 Photos
Vietnam Memorial adds four names
18 Photos
Cinco de Mayo on the Mall
11 Photos
