Navratilova's Fed Cup call

Tennis

Martina Navratilova, who retired from tournament singles play at the end of last year, was named yesterday in the United States team for this year's new-style Fed Cup. Her selection opened the way for her to compete in the Olympics, her one remaining ambition.

Navratilova was among 10 players selected by the US captain, Billie Jean King. Navratilova is expected to team up with former partner, Gigi Fernandez, in doubles. The other squad members are Lindsay Davenport, Amy Frazier, Lori McNeil, Mary Joe Fernandez, Zina Garrison, Lisa Raymond, Meredith McGrath and Patty Fendick.

The competition, formerly known as the Federation Cup, has been restructured on the lines of the men's Davis Cup with an eight-team World Group. The opening US match is against Austria next month in Florida. Four players will be chosen from the squad to compete.