Acapulco ATP 500 Tournament Proceeds Amidst Mexican Violence

The ATP 500 tournament in Acapulco commenced as planned on Monday night, despite the strong violence that has punctuated Mexico since the death of a major drug cartel leader killed by the army.

Tournament Organizers Affirm Safety and Security

Following the announcement of the death of Nemesio Oseguera, alias “El Mencho,” concerns arose regarding the safety of events in Mexico, including the Acapulco and Mérida tournaments. However, organizers have moved to reassure participants and fans.

“The alleged cancellation of the event due to security concerns in Jalisco is false,”

the organization communicated this Monday.

They further stated, The event is continuing as planned and the tournament is operating as normal. We remain in constant coordination and communication with federal, state and municipal authorities in accordance with established safety protocols.

Regional Calm Allows Events to Continue

The decision to proceed with both the Acapulco ATP 500 and the WTA tournament in Mérida was based on the relative calm in their respective regions. Organizers of the Mérida tournament confirmed the event is being maintained because no incidents have been reported in the region.

National Unrest Following Cartel Leader’s Death

The country has experienced significant unrest since Mexican authorities confirmed the death of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera, leader of the Jalisco Novel Generation (CJNV) cartel. The death of the wanted man, for whom the United States offered a $15 million reward, sparked retaliatory violence in several regions. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has called on the population to remain calm.

Although the state of Jalisco, home to Guadalajara (a 2026 World Cup host city), saw numerous acts of violence on Sunday, the state of Guerrero, where Acapulco is located, appears to have been largely unaffected. However, the southwestern region of the country remains one of five states where the U.S. Government has advised its citizens to shelter in place.

Key Players Compete in Acapulco

The Acapulco tournament features a strong lineup, including Alexander Zverev, Lorenzo Musetti, Alex de Minaur, Ben Shelton, and Casper Ruud. The tournament is an ATP 500 event, and Tomas Machac was last year’s champion.

The first seven matches of the first round took place without incident on Monday night.