Organisers of the Mexican Open insist the show will go on despite escalating unrest. The turmoil follows the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.”
He died in custody after being captured by special forces in Jalisco. Violent clashes erupted soon after, leaving parts of the state on edge.
The ATP event begins Monday in Acapulco, located in Guerrero. Notably, Guerrero is among five states where the US has urged citizens to shelter. Meanwhile, the UK advises against all but essential travel to certain Mexican regions. Still, players are preparing to compete under heightened awareness.
Tournament officials dismissed rumours of cancellation, stating that “the supposed cancellation of the event due to security issues in Jalisco is false”.
It added: “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.”
Security heightened as WTA and football fixtures adjust nationwide
Elsewhere, the Merida Open proceeds in Yucatan without major disruption. The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) confirmed tighter safeguards.
“The safety of players, staff, and spectators remains our top priority,” it said. “The tournament is operating as scheduled and there have been no reports of incidents in the region.”
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Players remain on course for their matches this week. However, security presence has visibly increased across venues.
Beyond tennis, the unrest has impacted football. Reports from across Mexico indicate four domestic matches were postponed over the weekend.
A Liga MX fixture between Queretaro and FC Juarez was delayed indefinitely. Additionally, a women’s clash between Chivas and America suffered the same fate. One encounter in Aguascalientes paused after loud noises were heard outside. Local media described the sounds as gunshots, though play later resumed.
Despite the tension, Mexico’s national team plans to face Iceland on Wednesday. For now, sport continues, even as uncertainty lingers.
Tags: El Mencho, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, Mexican Open, Acapulco, Guerrero, ATP, Merida Open, Women’s Tennis Association, WTA, Yucatan, Jalisco, Liga MX.
