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

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.”
More from Tennis365:
Latest
-
Tennis News
Naomi Osaka sets out to become a mental health champion
Naomi Osaka is out to hit a winner for mental health.
-
Tennis News
What titles has Daniil Medvedev won?
Daniil Medvedev is a feared opponent on hard courts all over the world.
-
ATP Tour
What does John McEnroe think of Carlos Alcaraz?
Carlos Alcaraz has received the John McEnroe seal of approval.
-
ATP Tour
Daniil Medvedev offers mock thanks to Indian Wells court after ‘toxic relationship’
Daniil Medvedev was in good spirits after losing the Indian Wells final.
-
Tennis News
Elena Rybakina finally gets one back in rivarly with Aryna Sabalenka
Elena Rybakina avenged her Australian Open defeat with a championship match triumph at Indian Wells.
-
Tennis News
Carlos Alcaraz savours ‘crazy’ Indian Wells triumph and return to No 1
Carlos Alcaraz is thrilled to be back on top of the world.
-
WTA Tour
Why Elena Rybakina’s Indian Wells win could be a breakthrough moment
Elena Rybakina is emerging as the biggest threat to Iga Swiatek at the top of the women’s game after Indian Wells win.
-
ATP Tour
Carlos Alcaraz banishes Novak Djokovic ‘asterisk’ snipe as he reclaims No 1 ranking
Carlos Alcaraz confirmed he was a worthy world No 1 after his stunning win against Daniil Medvedev in Indian Wells.
-
WTA Tour
Miami Open draw: Emma Raducanu handed nightmare opener
British No 1 Emma Raducanu is set for a tough start to her Miami Open campaign after she was drawn against Bianca Andreescu.
-
Tennis News
Stefanos Tsitsipas impressed and inspired by Jim Courier
Stefanos Tsitsipas fanboys over Jim Courier’s commentary.