Serena Williams to play in Sydney, but maybe with caveat

World number one woman tennis player Serena Williams has said that she will play in the Sydney International tennis tournament provided she escapes a suspension from tournament play following her outburst against a lineswoman at the US Open last month.

Williams was forced to forfeit the semi-final against Kim Clijsters when she was given a point penalty on match point for her tirade.

Williams was also fined 10,000 dollars for the verbal abuse and 500 dollars for racquet abuse.

But the International Tennis Federation (ITF), which controls the four Grand Slams, announced a month ago it was investigating the incident.

According to The Australian, the ITF has the power to fine Williams again or suspend her from the next grand slam on the tennis calendar -- the 2010 Australian Open (January 18-31).

But today the Sydney International (January 10-16) announced Williams as their major draw card in the women's field, along with France's Gael Monfils and Australia's Lleyton Hewitt in the men's.

The Sydney event is the major lead-up tournament to the Australian Open. So if Williams was banned from playing Melbourne, it would be highly unlikely she would travel half-way around the world to play in Sydney.