Mexican Open forced to release statement on cancellation rumours amid violence

The Mexican Open ‘continues as scheduled’ amid widespread violence following the death of a major drug lord.

Vehicles and businesses across the nation have been set on fire by members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) after their leader, Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, better known as ‘El Mencho’, died in custody.

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AFP

Why is there violence in Mexico?

‘El Mencho’, who was also Mexico’s most wanted man, sustained serious injuries during a skirmish between his bodyguards and Mexican special forces before he was captured.

As news of the drug lord’s death spread, several CJNG cartel members initiated attacks all over Mexico, including in 2026 World Cup host city Guadalajara.

The UK Foreign Office has since issued a warning to visitors in the affected regions to ‘exercise extreme caution’ and ‘stay indoors’.

They also reminded visitors to ‘stay alert and follow local security advice.’

Why the Mexican Open is still going ahead

Despite the chaos, the Mexican Open plans to press on.

In a statement, tournament organisers labelled rumours it would be cancelled amid the widespread violence as ‘false’.

“The event continues as scheduled and tournament operations are proceeding normally,” the statement added.

“We remain in coordination and constant communication with federal, state and municipal authorities, under the established security protocols.”

The tournament boasts a star-studded line-up, with the likes of Alexander Zverev, Lorenzo Mussetti, Alex De Minaur and Ben Shelton all competing for the prize.

British ace Cam Norrie is also in the field and is due to face Spain’s Rafael Jodar in the first round.

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Czech star Tomas Machac is the defending champion but will not compete in Acapulco after he elected to participate at a tournament in Dubai, only to withdraw due to injury.

Are there other tournaments happening in Mexico?

Although the Mexican Open confirmed plans to press ahead, there is yet to be an update on the Merida Open.

Merida is located in the state of Yucatan, which is the southeast of Mexico and has not been majorly impacted by the violence.

British duo Katie Boulter and Heather Watson are set to play in the Merida Open.

Boulter will play Brazilian star Beatriz Haddad Maia in the first round while Watson takes on Spain’s Jessica Bouzas Maneiro.