El Mencho’s Death Sparks Violence, But Mexican Open and Merida Open Proceed as Planned
The death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), in a military operation on Sunday, February 22, 2026, has triggered violence in Mexico, including arson and the erection of burning blockades. Yet, both the Mexican Open and the Merida Open tennis tournaments are continuing as scheduled, with increased security measures in place.
Violence Erupts Following El Mencho’s Death
Following the military operation that resulted in El Mencho’s death, clashes broke out, leading to the deaths of six other individuals and several arrests. Mexican authorities seized armored vehicles, rocket launchers, and other weapons attributed to alleged cartel members. Three members of the Mexican military were also wounded during the operation (AP News).
Mexican Open Confirms Event Will Continue
Despite concerns, the Mexican Open issued a statement confirming that the event is not canceled and will proceed as planned. Tournament operations are continuing normally under established security protocols, in coordination with federal, state, and municipal authorities (NewsNationNow).
Merida Open Enhances Security
The Merida Open, taking place in the state of Yucatan, which has not experienced significant violence related to the aftermath of El Mencho’s death, is also proceeding as scheduled. The Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) has implemented increased police presence and additional security measures at the tournament. The WTA emphasized that the safety of players, staff, and spectators remains their top priority (NewsNationNow).
Players to Compete as Planned
Britons Katie Boulter and Heather Watson are scheduled to compete in the Merida Open. Boulter will play Brazil’s Beatriz Haddad Maia on Monday, and Watson will face Spaniard Jessica Bouzas Maneiro on Tuesday. No incidents have been reported in the Yucatan region (NewsNationNow).
Who Was El Mencho?
Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” was the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. He was killed on Sunday in a military operation in western Mexico (The New York Times). He had been wanted for years by the United States, which alleged that he and CJNG trafficked large quantities of fentanyl and other drugs into the U.S. A $15 million reward was offered for information leading to his arrest (The New York Times). Oseguera Cervantes originally entered the U.S. Illegally in the 1980s and was deported multiple times after arrests on drug charges (CBS News).