Australian Tennis Star Alex de Minaur Exits Mexico Amid Cartel Violence and Tournament Defeat
Australian tennis star Alex de Minaur is set to depart Mexico following a shocking first-round loss at the Acapulco ATP tournament, as the country grapples with deadly cartel violence that has claimed at least 74 lives. The violence erupted after government troops attempted to arrest notorious drug boss Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as 'El Mencho', in the western state of Jalisco on Sunday.
Deadly Cartel Clashes and Government Response
Oseguera was injured and died while being transported to Mexico City, sparking a violent retaliation from his Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Suspected cartel members set fire to vehicles, blocked roads, and attacked banks, petrol stations, and shops across several states. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum declared the situation under control by Monday, stating, "Mexico is calm. We woke up without any roadblocks and all activity has been restored." However, the chaos has raised serious concerns about Mexico's suitability as a co-host for the upcoming World Cup, scheduled to begin in June.
Safety Concerns for Tennis Tournaments
More immediately, the violence has cast a shadow over tennis events in Acapulco and Merida, which are hosting ATP and WTA tournaments this week. At least one prominent commentator has returned to the United States and called for players to evacuate. De Minaur, the No. 2 seed in Acapulco, was among several Australians competing, including Priscilla Hon in Merida, along with de Minaur's fiancee Katie Boulter. Both cities are located some distance from the violence, with Boulter enjoying her golf-resort accommodation and posting on Instagram, "I love it here."
De Minaur's Disappointing Defeat in Acapulco
De Minaur's tournament ended abruptly with a surprise 6-1, 6-7 (4-7), 7-6 (7-4) loss to American Patrick Kypson. The Australian dropped his first two service games in the opening set but fought back to claim the second set, despite failing to earn a single break-point opportunity. In the deciding frame, de Minaur was just two points from victory before Kypson broke his serve, leading to a tiebreak where the American dominated after an initial setback. This marks only the second time de Minaur has lost to a player ranked outside the top 100 since entering the top 20 in 2023, adding to the disappointment after his recent Rotterdam Open win.
Other Australian Players' Performances
Other Australians also faced early exits in Acapulco, with Tristan Schoolkate and Adam Walton losing in straight sets to Miomir Kecmanovic and Aleksandar Kovacevic, respectively. Meanwhile, Boulter secured an extended stay in Merida after winning her first-round match against Brazil's Bella Haddid Maia. Looking ahead, four Australians are scheduled to play on Tuesday local time, including James Duckworth and Rinky Hijikata in singles, and John Peers in doubles. In Merida, Hon will face Mexican home hope Renata Zarazua.
As de Minaur heads north to California to prepare for the Indian Wells Masters, the events in Mexico highlight the ongoing challenges of hosting international sports amid security risks, with athletes balancing competition and safety concerns.
