Maria Sharapova to Play at UCLA Event

Maria Sharapova announced today she will play and host an event at the UCLA Tennis Center Dec. 12-13 that will also include Kei Nishikori, the world’s No. 4-ranked men’s player.

Other participants for “Maria Sharapova & Friends” will include International Tennis Hall of Fame member Michael Chang, former men’s No. 1 player Andy Roddick, Jack Sock, Madison Keys and Laura Robson.

The event will consist of men’s, women’s and legend’s singles, mixed doubles and celebrity doubles matches.

There will also be a comedy night, with Chelsea Handler among the performers.

A portion of the proceeds will go toward the Maria Sharapova Foundation which raises money for underprivileged children around the world.

VIP packages and advance tickets for “Maria Sharapova & Friends” are available for purchase at mariasharapova.com or by calling (844) 556-2742. Box seats and individual tickets will go on sale Sept. 21 and can be purchased at mariasharapova.com.

--City News Service