Mexican Open to Proceed Amid Security Concerns
Cameron Norrie, currently ranked 26th in the world, is set to compete in the Mexican Open, which organisers have confirmed will continue despite recent violence linked to the death of Mexico's most wanted drug baron.
Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as "El Mencho," died in custody on Sunday shortly after being captured by Mexican special forces. He sustained serious injuries during clashes between his supporters and the army in the central-western state of Jalisco on the same day.
The Mexican Open is scheduled to begin on Monday in Acapulco, located in Guerrero. Guerrero is one of five Mexican states where the US government has issued warnings advising its citizens to seek shelter due to ongoing violence.
British player Cameron Norrie is slated to face Spaniard Rafael Jodar in the tournament's first round on Monday.
Following El Mencho's death, members of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), recognized as one of Mexico's most powerful and feared criminal organizations, have engaged in violent acts including torching businesses and setting up burning blockades.
The Mexican Open organisers released a statement addressing rumours about the event's cancellation:
"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."
Other Tennis Events and Security Situation
In addition to the Mexican Open, British players Katie Boulter and Heather Watson are expected to compete in the Merida Open this week. This tournament takes place in the state of Yucatan, which has not been significantly affected by the recent violence.
Boulter is scheduled to play against Brazil's Beatriz Haddad Maia on Monday, while Watson will face Spaniard Jessica Bouzas Maneiro on Tuesday.
Impact on Football Matches
The news agency reported that four football matches in Mexico were postponed over the weekend due to security concerns. The top-tier men's match between Queretaro and FC Juarez, as well as a women's game between Chivas and America, were postponed indefinitely. Additionally, two men's second division matches scheduled for Sunday were called off.
Another match between Necaxa and Queretaro in Aguascalientes was temporarily suspended when players left the pitch after loud noises, reported by local media as gunshots, were heard outside the stadium. The match later resumed.
The Mexico men's national team is scheduled to play a friendly match against Iceland on Wednesday at the Corregidora Stadium in Queretaro.
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