Intro:

Rafael Nadal, David Ferrer, Rio Open,

Script:|

SOUNDBITE (English) Rafael Nadal, defending champion:
(On return to action in 2015 following spate of injuries back/wrist and illness (Appendicitis)

"Well, I started after a long time without playing, losing in Doha third round, but then Australia (Australian Open) playing quarter-finals was not a negative in the tournament, no... winning a few matches was positive for me and now we start a very important part of the season for me, between here and Roland Garros (French Open) it's a very important part for me, always has been during all my career, and I hope to be ready for it. I'm working enough to try to be competitive again, and we'll see. I need matches, I need confidence... and the only way to get that confidence is winning."

SOUNDBITE (English) David Ferrer, second seed:
"I'm happy with my season in this moment. I won one tournament in Doha, I reached the fourth round in the Australian Open, so I am winning matches and that point is important for me... and nothing else, no. I only played two tournaments... now I am in Rio de Janeiro and happy for come back."