World number one Rafael Nadal will play at the Thailand Open in September, organisers said on Thursday, raising hopes of a boost to the country's tourism industry in the wake of deadly unrest.
It will be the first time Nadal - who took his second Wimbledon winner's trophy this year - has participated in the Thai tournament, which starts on September 25 in the suburbs of Bangkok.
The Spaniard has pulled out twice in the past three years due to injuries.
The president of the Lawn Tennis Association of Thailand, Suwat Lipatapanlop, said he hoped Nadal's debut in Thailand would lure back tourists after anti-government protests turned deadly in April and May.
Nadal, who has also won the French Open five times, said he was fit to play at the 600,000-dollar tournament.
US Open champion Juan Martin Del Potro is also set to play at the event, which runs until October 3.
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