Massaro has topped the world rankings throughout 2016, with the 33-year-old claiming the US Open and Qatar Classic titles in late 2015.

She has been unable to reach a final since the Hong Kong Open in December, when she was defeated by Malaysia’s Nicol David.

The English star will be hoping to replicate her triumph at the 2013 edition of the World Championships, when she competes among the 56-strong field in Kuala Lumpur.

She will face a qualifier in the opening round of the tournament, which boasts prize money of $185,000 (£129,000/€165,000).

The winner will also receive a new Citroen DS4 car. 

Competition is scheduled to take place between April 23 and 30 at the Bukit Jalil Stadium in the Malaysian capital and is billed as the most lucrative in the history of the women’s tour.

Originally the Championship was to be staged in December, but it was postponed due to financial issues within organisers Hallmark Events Group.

A deal was then reached with promoters Sportspin Event & Athlete Management to stage the tournament, in association with the Squash Racquets Association of Malaysia (SRAM).

“We are very pleased to be able to host such an important event in the squash calendar,” said Azlan Iskander, tournament promoter and Sportspin director.

“It is important for me to be able to give back, and I jumped on the opportunity to do so.

“Of course this could not have been achieved without the cooperation and help from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Naza Group of Companies, and of course all our other sponsors and event partners.”

Home favourite David, an eight-time champion, will seek to defend her title, having beaten Egypt’s Raneem El Weleily in the 2014 final.

The second seed will begin her campaign against Australia’s Rachael Grinham, while El Weleily will start against Wales’ Tesni Evans.

"Women's squash is in the midst of one of the most competitive eras there has ever been, with more excitement than ever before surrounding who will emerge victorious and with every player inside the top section of the rankings capable of beating the other,” said Alex Gough, PSA chief executive.

"We have witnessed some amazing drama so far this year in all the women's PSA World Series tournaments and with the most prestigious title in the sport on the line in Kuala Lumpur I expect we will be treated to an outstanding week of action.

“We look forward to continuing to work closely with SportSpin and everyone involved with the tournament ahead of April 23."

The full draw for the tournament can be found here.