Former world No.1 Rafael Nadal has confirmed that he will defend his title at next year's Rio Open tennis.
Tournament organisers made the announcement Friday, when the 28-year-old Spaniard revealed he was undergoing surgery to remove his appendix, reports Xinhua.
"I am thrilled to have the chance to return to the Rio Open and defend my title next year," the 14-time Grand Slam winner said.
"Playing in the inaugural event in Rio this year was an incredible experience and the support from the crowd was unmatched. From visiting Corcovado, to my first football match at Maracana stadium, to the beaches and the energy of the people, Rio de Janeiro is a special place and I look forward to experiencing it again."
The Rio Open, part of the ATP World Tour 500 and a WTA International calendar, will be played on the clay courts of the Brazilian Jockey Club from Feb 16-22.