Samantha Stosur, Marion Bartoli Join Family Circle Cup Field

Samantha Stosur and Marion Bartoli join a stellar playing field in Charleston that already includes Top 10 players Serena Williams, Caroline Wozniacki, Victoria Azarenka, and Jelena Jankovic, as well as former World No. 1 Maria Sharapova, Vera Zvonareva, and American standout Melanie Oudin.

The Family Circle Cup, a Sony Ericsson WTA Tour Premier Event, is scheduled April 10-18, 2010 at the Family Circle Tennis Center in Charleston, SC.

“Sam Stosur and Marion Bartoli represent the talented depth that exists among the top level of women’s professional tennis,” commented Eleanor Adams, Family Circle Cup Tournament Manager.

“We’re thrilled to have these two veterans enter Charleston, and I’m sure our fans will enjoy watching them compete for the title amongst such an exciting player field.”

Stosur posted the best singles season of her career in 2009, finishing the year ranked in the Top 20 (No. 13) for the first time. This will mark Stosur’s third appearance in Charleston, last competing in 2007.

“I’m happy to be back in Charleston,” commented Samantha Stosur. “The player field is very strong this year and I’m always excited to compete in this beautiful and historic city.”

Marion Bartoli, a 10-year WTA Tour veteran, has posted a year end ranking in the Top 20 since 2007, ranking as high as No. 9 in 2007.

This year will mark Bartoli’s fifth consecutive appearance in Charleston, and her sixth overall. In 2009, she advanced to the semifinals, her best showing at the Family Circle Cup, where she holds a 7-5 record.

“I have such great memories at the Family Circle Cup,” commented Marion Bartoli. “I’m excited to return for the tournament’s 10th year in Charleston, and I look forward to competing for the title.”

Family Circle Cup Ticket Packages and Individual Session Tickets are on-sale now. Fans can visit familycirclecup.com for tickets and player commitment updates as the tournament approaches.