How Mexicano Works
Scoring
In Mexicano, each player earns points individually based on match results. After every round, players are ranked by total score. The next round's pairings are determined by this ranking: in each group of four ranked players, the default pairing is rank 1 + rank 3 versus rank 2 + rank 4. This means the best player faces the second-best, with partners chosen to balance each side.
Partner rotation
Unlike Americano, Mexicano doesn't guarantee you'll play with everyone. Instead, it uses a smart partner-selection algorithm that minimizes repeated partnerships. When multiple pairing options exist for a group of four, the system evaluates all three possible partner combinations and picks the one where teammates have played together the fewest times. This keeps the experience fresh while maintaining competitive balance.
Minimum Players
Mexicano requires a minimum of 8 players (two courts). The first round uses random pairings (lottery draw). From round two onward, the leaderboard determines all matchups. Both individual scoring and fixed-team formats are supported.
FAQ
Why is Mexicano better than standard round-robin?
Standard round-robin can produce mismatched games where strong players dominate weak ones. Mexicano solves this by pairing players of similar skill after the first round. As the tournament progresses, the most competitive matches happen at the top of the leaderboard, making every round more exciting.
What happens in round 1?
Round 1 uses completely random pairings (a lottery draw). This gives everyone a fair starting point. From round 2, the leaderboard takes over and pairings become skill-based.
Can I use fixed teams in Mexicano?
Yes. You can choose between individual scoring (points go to each player) or fixed-team mode (pre-arranged pairs compete together). Fixed-team mode is useful when your group has established doubles partnerships.