The Mexican Open will go ahead as scheduled in Acapulco despite widespread cartel violence that erupted following the death of one of the country’s most powerful criminal figures.
Mexican Open Organisers Dismiss Cancellation Rumours
Despite mounting speculation, organisers of the Mexican Open insisted the ATP 500 event would proceed as planned in Acapulco.
In a statement, the tournament said reports of cancellation due to security concerns were “false,” adding that operations were continuing normally under established safety protocols.
A Mexican Open statement said: “The event continues as scheduled and tournament operations are proceeding normally.
“We remain in coordination and constant communication with federal, state, and municipal authorities, under the established security protocols.”
The tournament is being staged at Arena GNP Seguros, where additional security personnel have reportedly been deployed. Officials also confirmed that pre-tournament events, including promotional activities for players and sponsors, had taken place without incident.
Star-Studded Field Remains Intact
The competition features a high-profile line-up, headlined by top seed Alexander Zverev and second seed Alex de Minaur. Other prominent names in the draw include Casper Ruud, Frances Tiafoe, Grigor Dimitrov, and Britain’s Cameron Norrie.
Meanwhile, the women’s Merida Open is taking place in the state of Yucatán, which has not been significantly affected by the violence. The Women’s Tennis Association confirmed an increased police presence and reinforced security measures, emphasising that the safety of players, staff, and spectators remains the top priority.
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What Really Happened?
Authorities confirmed that Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” died in custody on Sunday after being captured during a military operation in the western state of Jalisco. The 59-year-old was the alleged leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a group considered among the most violent and influential criminal organisations in Mexico.
According to officials, Oseguera Cervantes sustained serious injuries during a firefight between his security detail and Mexican special forces. He later died while being transported to Mexico City. His death triggered a swift and coordinated response from cartel members across multiple states.
The violence prompted international travel advisories. The United States government warned citizens in several states- including Jalisco and Guerrero- to shelter in place, while the United Kingdom advised against all but essential travel to parts of Mexico.
Heightened Tensions, Uncertain Backdrop
Although authorities say most roadblocks have been cleared and dozens of arrests made, tensions remain high in several regions historically influenced by the CJNG. Oseguera Cervantes had long been a primary target of Mexican and US law enforcement, with a reported $15 million bounty offered for information leading to his capture.
The escalating unrest has cast a shadow over Mexico’s sporting calendar, with several domestic football matches reportedly postponed over the weekend. Nonetheless, tennis officials have so far opted to maintain their schedules, citing close coordination with security agencies.
For now, play in Acapulco continues under heightened vigilance- an international sporting event unfolding against an unusually volatile national backdrop.
