What makes Acapulco one of the most vibrant tennis tournaments
On February 24, the Abierto Mexicano Telcel 2025 kicks off — a tournament that, over three decades, has evolved from clay courts in Mexico City to hard courts in Acapulco.
It has been the scene of unforgettable triumphs for players like Rafael Nadal and David Ferrer. Its unique nighttime atmosphere, matches that last into the early hours, and star-studded fields make it one of the season’s most exciting tennis events.
The ATP tournament in Acapulco was founded in 1993 and initially took place on clay courts in Mexico City. In 2001, it moved to the resort city of Acapulco, giving organizers the opportunity to offer players not only top-level tennis but also a beachside getaway on the Pacific coast — attracting even more fans.
In 2014, the event switched its surface to hard courts to better align with the American swing of the tennis season.
Before that change, the champions were often Spanish and Argentine clay-court specialists such as Rafael Nadal, David Ferrer, and Nicolás Almagro. After the switch, hard-court experts like Grigor Dimitrov, Juan Martín del Potro, and Alexander Zverev began claiming the title.
One of the tournament’s most striking traditions is Fiesta de Blanco — the legendary White Party that officially kicks off the competition week. Held at the luxurious Princess Mundo Imperial, it brings together players, coaches, and tennis officials in a laid-back atmosphere infused with Mexican flair. The white dress code symbolizes elegance and sporting unity, while the warm ocean breeze and the hotel’s refined ambiance add a special charm to the evening.
Winners of the Abierto Mexicano Telcel leave not only with a title but also with an unusual trophy: a silver pumpkin. During the awards ceremony, they also experience another tradition: donning a giant Mexican sombrero. This vibrant ritual dates back to 1993, when the tournament was still held in Mexico City, and has since become an essential part of Acapulco’s tennis lore.
The Acapulco event is famous for its marathon matches and record-breaking late finishes. In 2022, Alexander Zverev and Jenson Brooksby pushed this to the extreme by playing a match that ended at 4:54 a.m. — the latest finish in ATP history. Yet when the resort buzzes through the night and battles rage on the court, time seems to melt away.
A true legend among ATP 500 tournaments, Acapulco has been voted the players’ favorite three times — 2007, 2017, and 2019. These honors prove it offers competition at the highest level, and athletes return not only to chase the trophy but also to savor the tournament’s unforgettable atmosphere.
Despite the city’s sometimes challenging reputation, the event remains a favorite among players — thanks to strong security measures by the organizers and the unique energy provided by passionate Mexican fans.
Acapulco has long been one of the most spectacular and atmospheric stops on the ATP Tour — and each year its status only grows. Night matches, record-setting moments etched into tennis history, and the electric energy in the stands combine to make this tournament truly special. What surprises will Acapulco bring this season? One thing is certain: once again, it will have everyone talking — and it won’t leave players or fans indifferent.
Cover photo: abiertomexicanodetenis.com. Panoramic view of the tournament venue in Acapulco.
