OMNISPORT

Women's world number one Serena Williams will start 2016 at the Hopman Cup, as will men's world number two Andy Murray.

Tournament organisers confirmed the field for the mixed doubles tournament, which is used by many players as preparation for the Australian Open, on Wednesday.

And Williams is one of three top-10 players who will feature in Perth after she and John Isner finished as runners-up to the Polish team of Agnieszka Radwanska and Jerzy Janowicz earlier this year.

The American went on to win three of the four grand slams in 2015, taking her career tally to 21. 

"Perth definitely started something quite amazing so I think it's only natural and fair and reasonable that I go back to Perth," Williams said. "We were so close to winning last year. I'm really excited to be back."

Williams will be partnered by Jack Sock, while Murray - a finalist with Laura Robson in 2010 - will renew his partnership with Heather Watson to form the British team for the event.

World number nine Lucie Safarova partners Jiri Vesely for the Czech Republic, while the enigmatic Nick Kyrgios will play for the 'Australia Green' team alongside an as yet unnamed female partner.

Lleyton Hewitt, who is to retire after the Australian Open, and Casey Dellacqua form the 'Australia Gold' team.