Image by Flickr user James Boyes

Serena Williams, former World No. 1 and 2008 Family Circle Cup Champion, has committed to the 2012 Charleston event.

Williams, currently standing at World No. 11 in the WTA rankings, joins 2010 Cup champion Samantha Stosur, 2004 Cup Champion Venus Williams, and Vera Zvonareva in a world class player field assembling on Daniel Island. Marking the tournament’s 40th year, the Family Circle Cup will be held March 31 – April 8, 2012 at the Family Circle Tennis Center on Daniel Island.

“Serena is one of the most popular and recognizable athletes in the world, as well as an overwhelming fan-favorite at this event,” said Eleanor Adams, Family Circle Cup Tournament Manager. “We couldn’t be happier to welcome another former champion to our player field as we prepare to celebrate our 40th year in women’s professional tennis.”

Throughout her illustrious 17-year career, Williams has made an indelible mark on the sport of tennis. With 39 singles titles, including thirteen majors - the most among active players, this 30-year-old superstar has notched 501 singles victories. She leads the WTA with over $34.8 million in career earnings, the most of any female tennis player in history, and more than any other female athlete in any sport. Williams has also won Olympic gold for the USA in doubles (w/ Venus Williams) at the 2000 and 2008 games.

Williams has made five previous appearances in Charleston where she accumulated $336,540 in prize money, boasts a 12-4 record, and returns to this event with an active five-match win streak in progress, stemming from her 2008 Cup championship. Her Charleston earnings rank her at No. 7 among all-time Family Circle Cup money leaders.

For information on Ticket Packages, Individual Session Tickets, Travel Packages, Team Getaways, visit FamilyCircleCup.com/Tickets.