2026 Mérida Open
February 21 – March 1 CST
The 2026 Mérida Open Akron marks a significant milestone for tennis in Latin America. As the fourth edition of this vibrant event, the tournament has officially leveled up, transitioning into a prestigious WTA 500 category. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Yucatán Country Club in Mérida, Mexico, this year’s tournament promises high-stakes action, a star-studded field, and a significant boost in both prize money and ranking points.
From February 23 to March 1, 2026, the world’s elite female athletes will compete on the outdoor hardcourts, specifically the specialized Solflex surface, known for its consistency and player-friendly pace. Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 edition of the Mérida Open.
Tournament Overview: Date and Venue
The Mérida Open has quickly become a favorite stop on the WTA Tour, thanks to its unique blend of top-tier athletics and the rich cultural heritage of the Yucatán Peninsula.
- Dates: February 23 – March 1, 2026
- Venue: Yucatán Country Club, Mérida, Mexico
- Surface: Outdoor Hard (Solflex)
- Classification: WTA 500
The Yucatán Country Club provides a world-class setting, offering modern facilities that cater to both players and fans. The late-February timing makes it a crucial fixture in the early-season hardcourt swing, serving as a vital stepping stone for players looking to build momentum heading into the “Sunshine Double” in Indian Wells and Miami.
Prize Money and Ranking Points
With its promotion to WTA 500 status, the financial stakes have reached new heights. The 2026 Mérida Open boasts a total financial commitment of $1,206,446. This increase reflects the tournament’s growing stature and its ability to attract top-20 talent.
Singles Prize Money & Points
| Round | Prize Money | WTA Points |
| Winner | $185,500 | 500 |
| Finalist | $114,500 | 325 |
| Semifinalist | $66,003 | 195 |
| Quarterfinalist | $33,475 | 108 |
| Round of 16 | $17,795 | 60 |
| Round of 32 | $12,700 | 1 |
Doubles Prize Money & Points (Per Team)
| Round | Prize Money | WTA Points |
| Winner | $61,540 | 500 |
| Finalist | $37,400 | 325 |
| Semifinalist | $21,720 | 195 |
| Quarterfinalist | $11,150 | 108 |
| Round of 16 | $6,800 | 1 |
The Player Field: Top Seeds and Contenders
The 2026 draw is headlined by a mix of established Grand Slam contenders and rising stars. The elevation to a 500-level event has ensured a deeper, more competitive field than in previous years.
Singles Top Seeds
- Jasmine Paolini (Rank: 8): The Italian sensation leads the field. Known for her tenacity and all-court coverage, Paolini is the heavy favorite to take the title.
- Emma Navarro (Rank: 19): Representing the USA, Navarro’s steady baseline game and tactical intelligence make her a formidable opponent on hardcourts.
- Ann Li (Rank: 36): A player with explosive groundstrokes who thrives in warm, outdoor conditions.
- Marie Bouzkova (Rank: 38): A defensive specialist and former champion in regional tournaments, Bouzkova is always a crowd favorite in Mexico.
- Dayana Yastremska (Rank: 44): The powerful Ukrainian brings high-risk, high-reward tennis to Mérida.
- Janice Tjen (Rank: 46): A rising star to watch, Tjen has been climbing the rankings rapidly.
- Jessica Bouzas Maneiro (Rank: 48): The Spaniard brings a gritty clay-court sensibility to the hardcourts.
- Magda Linette (Rank: 50): The experienced Polish veteran rounds out the seeded list.
Notable Withdrawals and Changes
Fans were disappointed to learn of the withdrawal of Sloane Stephens, who opted out for personal reasons. Her spot in the draw was filled by Lucky Loser P. Ho, who looks to make the most of this unexpected opportunity in the main draw.
Doubles Competition
The doubles draw is equally competitive, featuring specialized pairings and top-tier individuals joining forces.
Top Seeded Teams:
- Irina Khromacheva / Nicole Melichar-Martinez: The top seeds bring a wealth of experience and a high combined ranking of 52.
- Cristina Bucsa / Xinyu Jiang: A versatile pair capable of neutralizing heavy hitters.
- Hanyu Guo / Kristina Mladenovic: Featuring former world No. 1 Mladenovic, this team possesses immense tactical variety.
- Giuliana Olmos / Aldila Sutjiadi: A “hometown” favorite pairing, as Mexico’s own Olmos joins forces with the talented Sutjiadi.
Provisional Schedule
The tournament follows a standard seven-day knockout format, with matches typically starting in the late afternoon to account for the Mérida heat and provide a prime-time viewing experience for local fans.
- Monday – Tuesday (Feb 23-24): First Round Singles and Doubles action.
- Wednesday – Thursday (Feb 25-26): Round of 16; the seeds begin to face tougher challenges.
- Friday (Feb 27): Quarterfinals “Super Friday” – all remaining singles stars compete for a spot in the final four.
- Saturday (Feb 28): Semifinals; Doubles Final (provisional).
- Sunday (March 1): Singles Championship Match followed by the trophy ceremony.
Key Narratives to Watch
The Rise of the WTA 500 in Mexico
Mérida’s upgrade to a WTA 500 is part of a broader trend of expanding high-level tennis in Mexico, alongside events in Guadalajara and Monterrey. This investment provides local fans with unprecedented access to top-10 talent like Jasmine Paolini.
Conditions and Strategy
Mérida in late February is typically warm and humid. The Solflex hardcourts are designed to provide a true bounce, but the humidity can make the balls feel “heavy” as the match progresses. Players with high fitness levels and the ability to dictate points without over-committing will have the advantage.
Local Hero Watch
All eyes will be on Giuliana Olmos in the doubles draw. As one of Mexico’s most successful contemporary players, her matches at the Yucatán Country Club are expected to draw sell-out crowds and electric atmospheres.
Conclusion
The 2026 Mérida Open Akron is set to be a landmark event. With a million-dollar prize pool, 500 ranking points on the line, and a world-class venue, it has solidified its place as a jewel of the WTA Tour. Whether you are rooting for the favorite Jasmine Paolini or looking for an underdog story from the qualifiers, the action in Mérida is not to be missed.