The tournament organisers for the Mexican Open are confident that Rafael Nadal will return for their tournament in 2019 after the Spaniard withdrew in 2018.
The event which takes place in Acapulco are already looking at finalising their field and have said that they expect world number one Rafael Nadal to return there next year.
The Spaniard was a last minute withdrawal in 2018 after he failed to recover from a hip injury that he suffered at the Australian Open.
In an interview with Efe tournament director Raul Zurutuza explained that he is expecting Nadal to play in 2019, “Having the (world) No. 1 is important for us, but it’s special because it’s Rafa. It took just one telephone call to confirm he’d be here,” said Zurutuza.
Other male players who are expected to compete in Acapulco next year is four time champion David Ferrer, Miami champion John Isner as well as Alexander Zverev and Stan Wawrinka.
The tournament especially important Ferrer, who will play his last foreign tournament in Mexico before ending his career in Madrid next may.
The 36 year old is looking to cap off an incredible career and Zurutuza spoke of his happiness about Ferrer’s return to Mexico, “David will always be David to us, there’s special affection there. He’s really loved in Mexico.”
The winner of the men’s singles will earn 1.7 million dollars at next year’s event, with popularity growing in Acapulco.
On the women’s side, 2017 US Open champion Sloane Stephens has already been confirmed with the tournament speaking to many other WTA stars.
One player that the Mexican Open are targeting for next year is 2017 Wimbledon champion Garbine Muguruza although the tournament director admits that could be difficult, “Muguruza is always on the list of players we want to have. Her presence depends on her schedule,” Zurutuza said.
The tournament takes place the week before the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. The defending champions are Juan Martin Del Potro and Lesia Tsurenko.
