Nadal confirms he will play Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart

Rafael Nadal will begin his annual transition from clay to grass as he competes at the Mercedes Cup from June 8, officials announced on Thursday.

Spain's king of clay won the title when the event was played on dirt, taking the trophy in 2005 and 2007.

The world number five will be joined on the new German lawns at the Weissenhof Club by US Open champion Marin Cilic and Spain's grass-loving Feliciano Lopez among others.

"I am very happy to play again in Stuttgart, I've always felt very comfortable there," said 14-times grand slam winner Nadal in a statement. "I'm very happy to play again soon in Stuttgart."

"After my two wins on clay, it's a special incentive to win the tournament on grass."

Nadal's German-speaking uncle and coach Toni has a long connection with the tournament, and is a regular visitor for coaching clinics. He is thought to have had a major influence on getting his nephew to play in the new-look tournament.

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