Mauresmo signs up for Sydney International

Former No.1 Amelie Mauresmo will join the world's top four women in a star-studded line-up at the Medibank International in Sydney in January.

The 2006 Australian Open and Wimbledon champion has foregone an invitation to the Hobart International, scheduled for the same week, to take part in the tournament, which will take place at the Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre from January 11-17.

Mauresmo has endured an injury-plagued 2008 and has dropped to 24th in the world rankings.

Her confirmation comes on the back of those of Jelena Jankovic, Serena Williams, Dinara Safina and Elena Dementieva.

Mauresmo is a former champion at the Medibank International, having won the event in 2000. She was also a finalist in 2004 and reached the quarter-finals earlier this year.

Tournament Director Craig Watson said he was delighted with Mauresmo's signature.

"Amelie has always been a favourite with the crowds here in Sydney and we love seeing her grace our courts each January," he said.

"She is a powerful player with great skills, a real joy to watch. We can't wait to welcome her back to Sydney for what we hope is a successful start to the season for her."

French compatriots Gilles Simon, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Richard Gasquet are all taking part in the men's event, alongside the likes of Lleyton Hewitt, David Nalbandian and Tommy Robredo.