ACAPULCO — The first round of the 2025 Mexican Open Tennis Matches unfolded with much excitement on February 25 at the Arena GNP Seguros, featuring several thrilling contests and surprising upsets. Notable performances included world number five Casper Ruud, who cruised past France's Arthur Rinderknech with scores of 6-4, 6-3, and Mexican tennis sensation Rodrigo Pacheco Mendez, who secured his first ATP victory by defeating Australian Aleksandar Vukic, ranked 66th, with scores of 7-5, 4-6, 7-6(4).
Ruud, the second seed of the tournament, showcased his impressive recent form, as this victory marks his seventh win out of eight matches leading to this event. Coming off of a runner-up finish at the Dallas tournament, Ruud demonstrated remarkable offensive play, breaking Rinderknech three times from nine chances and maintaining his serve after initially losing it in the opening game. The match concluded after one hour and 42 minutes. "That was one I wanted really bad," Ruud said, emphasizing his determination to win.
Pacheco's victory was particularly significant, as it broke a long-standing drought of Mexican players advancing past the first round of the tournament since 2011 when Santiago González achieved the feat. Pacheco's win came after he displayed resilience throughout the match, showing consistency and effective tactics. After losing the second set, he regained control and held his nerve during the decisive tiebreak. "Rodrigo Pacheco le volvió a dar una alegría al tenis mexicano," stated the commentators, alluding to the joy his win brought to fans of Mexican tennis.
During the contest, Pacheco initially showed great composure, not losing serve and breaking Vukic’s serve at pivotal moments to clinch the first set 7-5. The second set challenged him as he faced unforced errors, allowing Vukic to take command momentarily. Yet, the Mexican player’s fantastic defense and strategic play, particularly evident during tiebreaks, led him back to victory. “El tenista yucateco demostró mayor madurez en su estilo de juego contra su oponente australiano,” highlighted the commentators, noting how Pacheco matured as he handled the pressure.
Meanwhile, Ben Shelton claimed his spot in the second round after overcoming Flavio Cobolli, winning each set 7-6(4). Following two previous losses against Cobolli, Shelton expressed his determination before the match, saying, "For me, I wanted to fight back there, complete it in two, and get off the court." His victory paves the way for another challenging encounter against David Goffin, who comfortably dispatched Rinky Hijikata 6-2, 6-3.
Other matches also showcased burgeoning talent, including Tomas Machac, who defeated Jakub Mensik to reach the second round. Machac is set to face German wild card Daniel Altmaier, who triumphed over Miomir Kecmanovic.
The Mexican Open holds special significance for players, having been recognized multiple times as the best tournament of its kind over the years. With thrilling matches already underway, fans are eagerly anticipating the next rounds and the potential for even more surprises as top players clash on the hard court.
Overall, the first day of the Mexican Open has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting tournament. With Pacheco's notable victory, Huud's enviable form, and Shelton's determination, there's plenty of drama and talent on display. The combination of seasoned professionals and rising stars points to various gripping matchups to come, and the stakes are only going to rise as they vie for the coveted title.