Rio Open Faces Data Leak Controversy Amid Tournament Finale
The ATP 500 Rio Open is set to conclude this Sunday, but recent headlines have focused on a major data breach involving personal information of top players, including Carlos Alcaraz and Joao Fonseca.
How Did the Data Leak Happen?
Brazilian journalist Demetrio Vecchioli revealed that he had accessed sensitive personal information of several players due to a security lapse involving the Rio Open organizers and the Rio de Janeiro city government.
Despite not competing in Rio this year, Alcaraz’s personal details—along with those of other past and present participants—were still stored and, shockingly, accessible online.
What Information Was Leaked?
According to Vecchioli, the exposed data included:
✅ Passport photos
✅ Home addresses
✅ WhatsApp numbers
✅ Identification documents
The journalist even revealed that he was able to message Alcaraz directly, and the Spaniard responded. Other affected players reportedly include Dominic Thiem, Lorenzo Musetti, Marcelo Melo, and Thiago Monteiro.
Easy Public Access Raises Security Concerns
Perhaps the most alarming part of this situation is that the data was not protected or hidden behind security measures. Vecchioli explained:
“I found João Fonseca’s passport photo, issued in October 2020. How? This is one of many personal data leaks by the Rio Open organization and the RJ government.”
“I found João’s WhatsApp, Alcaraz’s WhatsApp (who even responded to me), and images of documents containing all the information necessary for fraud. And not just them—Thiem, Musetti, Melo, Monteiro, etc.”
The journalist did not exploit or expose the data but immediately alerted the authorities, who have since removed public access to the information. However, the ease of access raises major cybersecurity concerns.
Growing Safety Concerns for Players
The leak comes at a troubling time when players are already facing harassment and threats, particularly through social media.
Just this week, Emma Raducanu broke down in tears and sought protection behind the umpire’s chair when she spotted a known stalker in the crowd. Reports later revealed that the man had tracked her locations and made multiple plans to approach her.
As cases of harassment increase, players and tournament organizers must take stronger measures to ensure personal security—both online and in real life.
What Happens Next?
The Rio Open and local government have removed the exposed data, but questions remain about how such a major security lapse occurred in the first place.
With rising concerns over cybersecurity and player safety, the ATP, WTA, and tournament organizers worldwide may need to reassess their data protection policies to prevent similar breaches in the future.
