Mexican Open to Proceed Despite Violence Following Death of Notorious Drug Lord
Organisers of the Mexican Open have confirmed the tournament will go ahead despite escalating violence following the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho”, Mexico’s most wanted drug baron.
El Mencho died in custody on Sunday, shortly after being captured by Mexican special forces. His death sparked clashes between his supporters and the army in Jalisco, where businesses were torched and streets blocked by burning barricades.
The Mexican Open begins Monday in Acapulco, Guerrero, one of five states where the US government has warned citizens to shelter due to the violence. The UK has advised against all but essential travel to parts of Mexico, including Guerrero. Despite this, tournament organisers said the event is continuing as planned, stating:
"The supposed cancellation of the event due to security issues in Jalisco is false. 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."
British players Cameron Norrie, Katie Boulter, and Heather Watson are all scheduled to compete. Norrie faces Rafael Jodar in the first round on Monday, while Boulter plays Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia and Watson faces Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro at the Merida Open in Yucatan. The WTA confirmed enhanced security measures and police presence at the event, adding:
"The safety of players, staff, and spectators remains our top priority. The tournament is operating as scheduled and there have been no reports of incidents in the region."
The unrest has affected other sporting events. Reuters reported that four football matches were postponed over the weekend, including top-tier men's and women's games. One match between Necaxa and Queretaro was briefly suspended when loud noises, reported as gunshots, were heard outside the stadium, though play later resumed.
Mexico’s men’s national team is scheduled to play Iceland in a friendly on Wednesday at Corregidora Stadium in Queretaro.
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