Two Chilean men, Ignacio Zuñiga Cartes and Bastián Jiménez Freraut, 23, were arrested earlier this month for allegedly burglarizing the home of former Argentine tennis champion Juan Martín Del Potro.
Authorities say the burglars stole jewelry, medals, and rackets from the 2009 US Open champion’s residence in Tandil.
Connection to International Crime Ring
Investigators traced Cartes and Freraut through a traffic ticket issued in Buenos Aires a day before the Del Potro burglary, revealing that the pair were part of a South American crime ring targeting high-profile athletes.
The men were reportedly wanted by Interpol for a series of robberies against US athletes between 2024 and 2025, including:
- NFL stars Patrick Mahomes and Joe Burrow
- NBA player Bobby Portis
- Kansas City Chiefs athlete Travis Kelce, fiancé of pop superstar Taylor Swift
Modus Operandi
The thieves allegedly traveled to the US to commit their crimes, timing burglaries to coincide with the athletes’ away games. Stolen items included watches, cash, jewelry, and other luxury goods, with total losses exceeding $3.5 million, according to the US Department of Justice.
Legal Proceedings
Cartes and Freraut remain in custody as authorities continue their investigation into the crime ring. Interpol involvement underscores the international scope of the alleged crimes.
