Tennis: Mexican Open Planned for February in Acapulco

(Acapulco, AN 18 January) The Mexican Open, an important stop in the professional tennis circuit, will be held in Acapulco again this year. The dates are February 21 through 26. The event, sanctioned by the WTA and the ATP, will be held in Acapulco Diamante, as usual. “Yes, we are concerned [about the recent violence], but we are certain that the organizing committee of the Mexican tournament will take all applicable precautions,” said Kate Gordon a vice president and spokesperson for the ATP.

Mextenis organizes the event every year. According to Gordon, “The Mexican Open is an important event for the ATP World Tour. It is one of 11 international events in the 500 category and is the centerpiece of the Latin American tour.” Some countries, however, have issued warnings to their citizens concerning the high risk of visiting Acapulco or Mexico in general. These include: United States, United Kingdom, Italy, Germany and Canada. Raúl Zurutuza, event director, emphasized that the contest has always been free of violence. “We are a sporting event, framed within a context that gives certainty and security to the public. . . . We are working with the authorities to have a very calm event, where the people can feel relaxed and safe, enjoying tennis.” As of now, 50 international tennis players have confirmed their participation. No one has cancelled for any reason unrelated to the sport.