Venus Williams joins Family Circle Cup field

Venus Williams, the former No. 1-ranked women’s tennis player, has committed to play in the Family Circle Cup that will be played March 31-April 1 at the Family Circle Tennis Center on Daniel Island.

Williams, who won the Family Circle Cup in 2004, joins defending champ Samantha Stosur, currently ranked No. 5, and No. 8-ranked Vera Zvonareva as early commitments to the tournament.

“Venus Williams is an undeniably accomplished superstar with a huge presence about her, and she is very loved by our fans,” said FCC tournament manager Eleanor Adams. “She has such passion for the game, which makes it so exciting to watch her compete.”

Williams, 31, has competed in the event four times, compiling an 11-3 record. She lost in the 2007 semifinals to eventual champion Jelena Jankovic and made it to the round of 16 in 2005 and 2009. Williams was scheduled to play but withdrew because of a medical issue in 2008 when her sister Serena won.

She has won 43 singles titles, including 14 majors, and earned almost $28 million in her career, second only to her sister Serena who has won more than $34 million.

“I’m very excited to return to the Family Circle Cup this year, especially because the Original 9 will be recognized for their significant contribution to women’s professional tennis. The WTA would not be where it is today without their pioneering spirit, and I’m so glad to be a part of this celebration,” said Venus Williams, referring to the players who broke away from the U.S. Lawn Tennis Association to form the Virginia Slims Circuit, now the Women’s Tennis Association. The Original 9 were Billie Jean King, Rosemary Casals, Nancy Richey, Peaches Bartkowicz, Kristy Piegon, Valerie Ziegenfuss, Julie Heldman, Kerry Melville Reid and Judy Tegart Dalton Information on ticket packages, including individual session tickets, is available at familycirclecup.com/tickets.