As the eagerly anticipated announcement of the ATP Player of the Year draws near, it is important to acknowledge the rising stars who have left an indelible mark on the tennis world this year. Despite Novak Djokovic’s claim to the top spot, there are several other players who warrant recognition for their exceptional performances.
In a poll conducted by the esteemed editorial team at TENNIS.com, each member selected their top five players resulting in the following rankings:
1. Novak Djokovic (50 voting points)
2. Carlos Alcaraz (39 voting points)
3. Jannik Sinner (24 voting points)
4. Daniil Medvedev (23 voting points)
5. Andrey Rublev (4 voting points)
However, there remained 10 votes that were unaccounted for, prompting the recognition of Honorable Mentions. Among these deserving players are:
– Ben Shelton (3 voting points): The young American made a significant impact this year, achieving his first Grand Slam semifinal and securing his inaugural ATP title in Tokyo. Starting the year at 96 in the rankings, he ascended to No. 15, showcasing his undeniable talent and potential.
– Alexander Zverev (2 voting points): Zverev’s remarkable comeback following a challenging injury at the 2022 French Open was nothing short of extraordinary. Despite the physical and emotional obstacles, he not only returned to the court but also earned a place in the ATP Finals.
– Tommy Paul (2 voting points): Paul’s unique playing style provided a refreshing change in an era dominated by powerful serves and forehands, adding an innovative dimension to the tennis landscape.
– Grigor Dimitrov (1 voting point): At 33 years old, Dimitrov’s perseverance and determination were evident as he finished the year at No. 14 and reached a Masters 1000 final. His unwavering commitment to realizing his potential is truly admirable.
– Gael Monfils (1 voting point): Despite a limited schedule and various injuries, Monfils managed to climb over 125 places in the rankings, concluding the year at No. 74. His charismatic on-court presence and unwavering showmanship continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
– Hubert Hurkacz (1 voting point): This talented player is undoubtedly one to watch in the years to come as he continues to carve out a reputation for himself in the world of tennis.
As we celebrate the achievements of these honorable mentions, we anticipate witnessing their ongoing development and success in the future. Congratulations to all the players who left their mark on the ATP circuit this year.