Newly-crowned Wimbledon champion Andy Murray will return to thrill fans here at the 2013 ATP Thailand Open, organisers said yesterday.
The world No.2 will be joined by No.6 Tomas Berdych and defending champion and No.9 Richard Gasquet at the Sept 21-29 tournament at Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani.
Murray, the first British player in 77 years to win the men's title at Wimbledon, will be making his fourth appearance at the Thailand Open.
He reached the final on his Bangkok debut in 2005 and was crowned champion in 2011.
"I wasn't able to come and defend my title last year so it will be great to be back this year," Murray said in a statement. "I am looking forward to seeing all the fans again."
Thailand may be an auspicious place for the Scot.
Since his Bangkok triumph in 2011, the 26-year-old has won two Grand Slam titles at the 2012 US Open and 2013 Wimbledon, as well as gold medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
"With three of the world's top 10 players already confirmed including Andy Murray, we are going to enjoy some tremendous tennis," said Thai tennis chief Suwat Liptapanlop.
"We are lucky to be able to bring Murray to the Thailand Open this year.
"We approached him two or three month ago and he has agreed to come here."
Fast-rising Canadian Milos Raonic and Russia's Mikhail Youzhny have also confirmed their participation.
Title-holder Gasquet expressed his delight to return to Bangkok.
"It was very special for me to win the Thailand Open last year in my first appearance in the tournament," Gasquet said. "It's going to be another strong field at the tournament this year and I will do my very best to defend my title.
Czech star Berdych said: "I remember the Thai people's great hospitality and what an amazing city Bangkok is.
"So I am looking forward to coming back to Thailand."
Tickets starting from 300 baht will be available from tomorrow at Thai Ticket Major outlets.