Australian Fed Cup Captain, Alicia Molik has announced that Perth rising star, Maddison Inglis will take on the traditional “Orange Girl” role for the Australian Fed Cup team as they take on the USA at the Fed Cup by BNP Paribas World Group Playoff at Pat Rafter Arena on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 April.
Inglis will be joined by fellow WA compatriot Casey Dellacqua, as well as Sam Stosur, Arina Rodionova and rising star Daria Gavrilova, who will make her much-awaited Fed Cup debut.
Eighteen year old Maddison Inglis has produced some of the best tennis of her career in recent months, after winning a wildcard into the main draw of the Australian Open, reaching the Final of the 18s Nationals, and delivering some impressive results on the Pro Tour.
National Academy Coach – WA, Andrew Roberts is thrilled at the opportunity this will afford the young star.
“Being named Orange Girl is a testament to the hard work Maddi has put in over the last 12 months, and marks her progression from the junior ranks. This is a fantastic opportunity for Maddi to spend time with some of Australia’s best players and immerse herself in their training habits, preparation, and match-day performance. The knowledge and experience she will come away with is invaluable.” said Roberts after the announcement.
Team captain Alicia Molik said the Aussie line-up boasted a strong mix of youth and experience.
“We’re thrilled for Dasha to make her Fed Cup debut for Australia on home soil next weekend and we know she’ll bring great energy and a fighting spirit to the team.
“Sam is our most experienced Fed Cup player and will really enjoy the opportunity to play in front of her home crowd at Pat Rafter Arena, and Casey and Arina add great depth to the squad.
“The USA has been dominant in Fed Cup competition for many decades and we know it will be a tough assignment next weekend, but we’re ready for the challenge and really looking forward to the tie.”
This month’s tie marks the 14th meeting between the two Fed Cup powerhouses, with the USA taking an 8-5 advantage into the clash.
The USA won the teams’ most recent showdown in 1985, and will enter the tie with a record 17 Fed Cup titles to its name. Australia sits third on the all-time list of champions with seven Fed Cup victories, the most recent in 1974.
FED CUP FAST FACTS: Australia vs USA
Australia
First played: 1963
Years played: 54
Ties played: 175 (125-50)
Years in World Group: 41 (95-38)
Team captain: Alicia Molik
USA
First played: 1963
Years played: 53
Ties played: 181 (145-36)
Years in World Group: 50 (138-33)
Team captain: Mary Joe Fernandez
For event information please visit tennis.com.au, and stay up to date with the latest news via Facebook and #AUSUSA on Twitter.
The Fed Cup by BNP Paribas World Group Play-off will be broadcast live and free on the Seven Network – check local guides for details.
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