Rafael Nadal becomes first player to sign up for 2019 Barcelona Open

ATP Tour

Rafael Nadal will be gunning for a 12th Barcelona Open title next year after the defending champion confirmed his participation in the 2019 edition.

The 17-time Grand Slam winner made his debut at the Catalonia tournament in 2005 and next year’s tournament will mark his 15th appearance at the ATP World Tour 500 series event.

The Spaniard took his trophy tally to 11 in April this year when he beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 6-1 in the final.

“Once again I would like to announce my participation in the Barcelona Open Banc Sabadell,” Nadal said.

“This will be a special year for me given that it is my fifteenth participation. See you in Barcelona in April.”

Next year’s tournament at the Real Club Tenis Barcelona runs from April 20 to 28 and Tournament Director Albert Costa is delighted that the King of Clay will return.

“The fact that Rafa comes to Barcelona is great news even if it seems normal to the fans,” he said. “And it will be his 15th participation since he debuted in 2003.

“He is at home in his club and appreciates all our work in the tournament. And, of course, for the organisation it is a pride to be able to count on once again with the best tennis player in history on clay. Surely nobody will want to miss it.”

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