Nicole Vaidisova is quitting the Fed Cup after helping the Czech Republic reach the World Group play-off stages with a victory over Slovakia two weeks ago.

The Czech team is set to face Israel at the end of April and Vaidisova's absence will be a big blow to their hopes of reaching the World Group.

The 18-year-old world number 16, who scored two singles wins and a doubles victory against Slovakia, hopes to improve on her WTA ranking by skipping Fed Cup matches.

"Nicole has always been proud to play for the Czech Republic. But she has reached a point in her career where she wants to improve her position and wants to make a step forward," her agent Olivier van Lindonk said.

"It has been a very difficult decision for Nicole.

"She is not against playing the Fed Cup in the future but at the present she has other priorities."

Despite her decision to take a break from Fed Cup play, Vaidisova still hopes to represent the Czech Republic at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

"She is looking forward very much to playing in Beijing," her agent said.

Vaidisova's record in Fed Cup play is 12-2.

Vasek Kadlec from Sport / Eurosport