In a feat to join the new challenge in the Tennis world, Patrick Rafter and LLeyton Hewitt confirm joining Serena Williams in Team Singapore for the first International Premier Tennis League to be held later this year.

No.1 seed Rafael Nadal is slated to represent Team Mumbai. Nadal will also be accompanied by 14-time Grand Slam champion Pete Sampras.

On the other end, No 1 Arab player Malek Jaziri, ex-topper Caroline Wozniacki and Janko Tipsarevic will join Team Dubai with Novak Djokovic.

Former No.1 Carlos Moya will play for Bangkok. In a recent interview he stated, "I'm very excited to be part of this competition, and look forward to playing for Bangkok. I have fond memories from the days I've played there". Along with Moya, the World No.2 Victoria Azarenka and Andy Murray will also play for Bangkok team.

Each team representative will have the option to add 10 players on their respective squad.

The Managing Director of the league, Mahesh Bhupathi, a celebrated doubles tennis champion mentions, a whopping $26.8 million has been invested to book 28 players for four teams representing the tournament.

The conceptual model of International Premier Tennis League came into being after seeing the success of Indian Premier League (IPL).

Of all the top players joining the bandwagon, Roger Federer will be missed as he seemed to be a bit hesitant joining the league right at the first time. In his recent visit to Dubai stated, "Firstly, I want to see whether it takes off. I know a lot of people have invested in it or are part of it".

The league is scheduled from November 27 to December 14 having 24 matches to be played across four major cities: Singapore, Mumbai, Bangkok and Dubai.