Funk, who finished third on the 2008 Official Money List, was the only golfer from the top-10 missing from the tournament field. He had been out of action indefinitely while recovering from a staph infection in his right knee.

Funk was plagued by knee problems through much of his 2008 campaign and underwent arthroscopic surgery on the same right knee that later became infected. Despite missing action due to injury and splitting time on both Tours, Funk still managed to win twice including one major title at the JELD-WEN Tradition.

“This is a very pleasant surprise,” said Tournament Director Jason Camp. “We are happy that Fred has recovered from his injury and is able to play this year. With his commitment, we now have all of the top-10 players from last year’s money list.”

Funk is the owner of four Champions Tour wins in just over two years on the over-50 circuit. He is also an eight-time PGA TOUR champion and won as recent as the 2007 Mayakoba Golf Classic at Riviera Maya-Cancun. He also won the 2005 PLAYERS Championship and is the oldest player to win the event at age 48.

The final field will be released after 5 p.m. on Friday.