Organizers of the Mexican Open in Acapulco have issued a statement denying rumors of cancellation amid a major security operation in Mexico. The ATP 500 tournament, running from February 21 to March 1, 2026, is proceeding with enhanced safety measures. Tennis insiders have called for player evacuations, but officials emphasize coordination with authorities.
The Abierto Mexicano Telcel, also known as the Mexican Open, began on February 21, 2026, in Acapulco and is scheduled to conclude on March 1. Despite speculation about cancellation due to security concerns in Jalisco, organizers stated on Sunday via social media: “The Abierto Mexicano Telcel reports that the rumors circling in the press and on social media about the tournament’s supposed cancellation due to the security issues in Jalisco are false.”
Acapulco lies approximately 500 miles, or a 10-hour drive, from Guadalajara in Jalisco. Fans reported an increased security presence at the Arena GNP Seguros venue. Organizers added: “We remain in coordination and in constant communication with federal, state, and municipal authorities, following the established security protocols.” The Tennis Channel echoed this on February 24, 2026, confirming the event would “go on as scheduled” despite cartel violence.
The tournament features top players including world No. 4 Alexander Zverev, two-time champion Alex de Minaur, Casper Ruud, Frances Tiafoe, and Grigor Dimitrov. Main draw action started on Monday at 4:00 p.m. local time, following the close of qualifying. Businesses near the arena closed early on Sunday, but no direct impact on players or spectators has been reported.
The security situation stems from a large-scale operation on February 22, 2026, in Jalisco, where authorities targeted Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” the 59-year-old leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. He reportedly died during the operation, along with several associates, according to the Mexican Defense Ministry. Several individuals were killed, others detained, and weapons seized. Subsequent incidents included roadblocks and damaged vehicles across multiple states, causing temporary disruptions.
Tennis Channel commentator Brett Haber urged evacuation on X: “Just left Mexico. Police activity at the airport was insane. Polite suggestion to the @atptour & @WTA – and to Larry Ellison: get one plane to Acapulco and one to Merida and get everybody out of there — and put them up for an extra week at Indian Wells to train and be safe. This is not a drill.” Meanwhile, the concurrent WTA 500 event in Merida, Yucatan—about 1,100 miles from Guadalajara—also proceeds as planned, led by top seeds Emma Navarro and Jasmine Paolini.
The Mexican Open has a storied reputation, earning Best ATP 500 Event honors in 2007, 2017, and 2019.
