The Rio Open has announced a top-10 player as the first confirmed name for its 12th edition. Italian Lorenzo Musetti, a bronze medalist at the 2024 Olympic Games, returns to the biggest tennis event in South America, which will take place from February 14 to 22 at the Jockey Club Brasileiro.
Currently ranked No. 10 in the world, Musetti is having the best season of his career in 2025, shining on his favorite surface: clay courts. The 23-year-old Italian reached his first Masters 1000 final in Monte Carlo, as well as semifinals at the Madrid and Rome Masters, and capped off the clay season with a historic semifinal run at Roland Garros. This impressive run propelled Musetti to No. 6 in the rankings, the highest of his career, establishing him as one of the leading forces in tennis on this surface.
“I am confirming my participation in the 2026 Rio Open. Unfortunately, I was injured this year and was unable to play, but I was still able to enjoy the city a great deal. I was very happy in Rio, felt the affection of the fans, and that is why I am coming back”, said Musetti.
Back in Rio and a big fan of Brazil, Musetti will make his second appearance on the courts of the Jockey Club Brasileiro after competing in the 2023 edition. The Italian was also present for the 2025 edition but withdrew before the start of the tournament due to injury. A two-time title winner (ATP 500 Hamburg and ATP 250 Naples), Lorenzo is also a two-time Davis Cup champion with Italy, as part of the teams that won the titles in 2023 and 2024.
“We are very happy to welcome Musetti back to the Rio Open. Since the injury that forced him to withdraw in 2025, he has always expressed his desire to return to Rio and play in front of the Brazilian fans. He has a special connection with Brazil, is one of the best clay-court players in the world, and I am confident he will have a great run in 2026,” said Luiz Carvalho, Rio Open Tournament Director.
Further confirmations for the 2026 lineup will be announced soon through the Rio Open’s official channels.
