Federer, Sampras Lead Hit for Haiti Live Friday on Tennis Channel

Tennis stars past and present will turn out this Friday for the “Hit for Haiti” benefit during the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif., to be broadcast live March 12, 2010, at 10:30 p.m. ET on the Tennis Channel.

Among the team-ups announced, Roger Federer and Pete Sampras will take on Rafael Nadal and Andre Agassi in doubles, while Steffi Graf and Lindsay Davenport will play against Martina Navratilova and Justine Henin in women’s doubles.

All eight players are current or former No. 1s in the men’s and women’s rankings.

Indian Wells Tournament Director Steve Simon says he expects a minimum of $1 million to be raised for Haiti earthquake relief efforts, as net proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the American Red Cross, and fans will be able to donate onsite and through text messages. Tickets are reportedly sold out for the event.

Oracle software millionaire Larry Ellison, who earlier this year purchased the Indian Wells event, will make his own donation, and according to officials the event will be broadcast live around the world and streamed live on the internet at usta.com and other websites, with broadcasters donating television and satellite time.

“Oracle is proud to participate in fundraising efforts to benefit the relief efforts in Haiti,” Ellison said. “It is impressive to see this remarkable line up of athletes work together to raise much-needed funds for Haiti. Our hope is to hold an event that supports relief efforts and continues to raise the visibility for how Haiti needs the world’s help.”