Memphis, TN ? The Regions Morgan Keegan Championships and the Cellular South Cup announced today that Andy Roddick has committed to playing in the February 17-26, 2006 tournament at The Racquet Club of Memphis. This commitment is 8 months in advance of the tournament and solidifies Roddick's fondness for the Memphis tournament and his love of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Currently ranked No. 4 in the world, Roddick continues to be a crowd favorite in Memphis.

?It's fabulous news that Roddick will be returning to Memphis in February, and his appearance will help the tournament in so many ways, especially in our fund-raising efforts for the hospital,? stated Mac Winker, Owner and CEO of the tournament. Mac Winker further expressed that ?St. Jude is dear to Andy's heart since his cousin, Garrett Starr, is currently in remission, a true miracle, while undergoing treatment for a brain tumor.?

(From L to R) Tanya Rankin (Cellular South Public Relations), John Moses (Elect of Alsac CEO), Allen Morgan (Morgan Keegan & Company Chairman), Mac Winker (Owner & CEO of Racquet Club of Memphis). © RMK Championships

The tournament further announced that Judy and David Ganz of Boston, Massachusetts have committed to a donation through a trust of $500,000 to St. Jude. This gift evolved through a personal relationship with Claire and Mac Winker that began on St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Mac Winker conveyed that ?the tournament provides a catalyst for unique donations such as the one from Judy and David Ganz.? Mac Winker further stated that ?the two miracles such as the Andy Roddick/Garrett Starr connection and the Ganz donation to St. Jude happen because the tournament is located in Memphis and through the support of all the sponsors and fans.?

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is internationally recognized for its pioneering work in finding cures and saving children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Founded by late entertainer Danny Thomas and based in Memphis, Tennessee, St. Jude freely shares its discoveries with scientific and medical communities around the world. No family ever pays for treatments not covered by insurance, and families without insurance are never asked to pay. St. Jude is financially supported by ALSAC, its fund-raising organization. For more information, please visit www.stjude.org.

THE PLACE TO BE?.. Feb. 17 ? 26 ?.. The Racquet Club of Memphis. Ten days of world class tennis awaits you. Help serve an ace to the players, the Memphis community, and the children of St. Jude by purchasing tickets to the always-exciting event.

To purchase your tickets and receive additional information, call Carolyn Hicks at 901.685.ACES or visit the tournament website www.regionsmorgankeeganchampionships.com .