Patrick Kipsun etched his name in the headlines by ousting Alex de Minaur, the two-time defending champion and No. 6 seed, in the Mexican Open’s opening round. The American triumphed 6-1, 6-7(4), 7-6(4), capping a tense decider with a tiebreak win after 2 hours and 39 minutes of high-stakes tennis.
For Kipsun, this victory ends a drought since his last tour-level success at Indian Wells in 2024. It arrives amid his career-best week, highlighting his resurgence. De Minaur, riding momentum from his recent Rotterdam conquest, faltered against Kipsun’s aggressive play.
The turning point came as Kipsun capitalized on break chances, converting three out of five while dominating with his serve—securing 71% of first-serve points. His forehand proved lethal throughout.
‘I had to bring my A-game in every department,’ Kipsun said afterward. ‘Good fortune helped me sustain it.’ At 26, he’s vaulted seven spots to No. 93 live, topping 2025 Challenger wins with four titles.
Kipsun now eyes Brandon Nakashima in the second round, following the latter’s 6-3, 6-4 win over Elias Ymer. Elsewhere, Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina wasted no time, beating Daniel Altmaier 7-5, 6-3 in under 1.5 hours to advance.
As Acapulco unfolds, Kipsun’s giant-killing act signals potential fireworks ahead in this prestigious ATP 500 event.