Star duo are set to appear in Chiang Mai

Maria Sharapova and Venus Williams have confirmed they will still visit Thailand to play an exhibition match despite the current crisis in the south.
Russian Sharapova will arrive in Bangkok tonight while Williams will arrive tomorrow. The pair will then play in the TAT Tennis Invitational 2005 in Chiang Mai on January 2.



The Deputy Prime Minister and the president of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand (LTAT), Mr Suwat Liptapanlop said the highly-anticipated game will go ahead as planned on the Chiang Mai 700th Anniversary tennis court.


''We have been talking with the IMG, the agency of the two players in America,'' explained Suwat. ''Both players are aware of the situation in the south and are very saddened by what has happened.''
Owing to the tragedy in the south, all official New Year promotion parties concerning this event have been cancelled as a mark of respect.


''We hope the arrival of Maria and Venus will help the tourist situation with regards to foreigners because they will be able to see that there are many unaffected areas still to visit,'' Suwat said.


According to sources Maria will donate the $10.000 she receives for playing an extra exhibition match to the victims of the tsunami. More info on this later...