World number two Novak Djokovic will return to action in Acapulco next week after claiming a wild-card into the Abierto Mexicano Telecel tournament.
The Serbian had not been expected to play until the first Masters 1000 event of the season in Indian Wells which starts in the second week in March but revealed on Thursday night that he would compete in Mexico.
He wrote on Facebook: “I have great news to share with you. I am flying to Mexico for the first time to play the Acapulco Open next week. I can't wait to compete again and meet my Mexican fans!”
Rafael Nadal is also into the field, as are Milos Raonic, Marin Cilic, defending champion Dominic Thiem, David Goffin and Juan Martin Del Potro.
Tournament director Raul Zurutuza said: "This is great news for the tournament. We’re very pleased to have the world number two in the Acapulco field.
“The public will be very happy and we’re treating it like a big party.”
Djokovic last played in Serbia’s Davis Cup tie against Russia when he dropped the opening set to Daniil Medvedev before rallying. His opponent eventually quit when cramping while trailing by two sets to one.
That match came two weeks after the French Open champion’s shock second-round loss at the Australian Open to Denis Istomin.
