In the longlist of Roger Federer's records, the ATP Fans' Favorite award is the one that will stand for some time. But the emergence of Carlos Alcaraz could change that.
Roger Federer's name was the most coveted by fans, sponsors, global media, and even the tournament organizers due to his precocious talent. Rivals Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are endearing champions too, but neither of them commanded the same level of pull that Federer had.
Since winning his first Grand Slam at the 2003 Wimbledon Championships, Federer became the new darling of tennis and went on to become the face of the sport for almost two decades. It was almost invariably difficult to bring up tennis debates without covering the name Roger Federer, both by fans and media alike.
And now, for the first time since Federer stepped away from the sport, Spain's Carlos Alcaraz is looking more and more likely to be the heir to that mantle. Alcaraz, at only 20, is one of the most likable tennis players. He has already established a special bond with fans, and a fellow pro has called him a 10 out of 10 guy.
The ATP's Fan Favorite award was introduced in 2000, whereby tennis fans have the privilege of nominating their favorite player at the end of each season. The player who receives the highest number of votes is declared the winner in that particular category.
Federer, who won his first major 20 years ago, has been the recipient of the award a record 19 times in a row until his official retirement in 2022. On the four occasions he didn't win it, thrice was before he rose to prominence and once during his retirement year when Nadal ended his streak.
The appeal and marketability are driven by success. And Alcaraz is already enjoying that at a very young age. He made his ATP debut at 16 in 2020, and fast forward to 2023, and he has already bagged two Grand Slams and topped the world rankings as a teenager.
Although he has never been voted a Fan Favorite before, that accolade will most likely be Alcaraz's come the end of the season and for many years to come.
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