The world of tennis has been dominated for the best part of two decades by the likes of Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, and Roger Federer. With each having successful, start-studded careers they have rarely been touched in the majors by those ranked outside of them.
Whilst the former two still play, Federer’s recent retirement from the game was perhaps the start of a new generation of players who will be vying to take their place. With Djokovic and Nadal in their mid-to-late 30s it may only be a matter of time before they bow out of the sport as well. But who exactly will be looking to take their place?
Carlos Alcaraz – Current ranking: No. 1
Beginning with the latest sensation in the world of tennis, Carlos Alcaraz already looks to be a generational talent at just 19-years-old. Born in Murcia, Spain, he only turned professional in 2018 and is now the youngest ever ATP world No. 1. An all-surface, all-round tennis player, Alacaraz is known for his strong forehand and aggressive baseline style. The Spaniard already has a Grand-Slam singles win under his belt after winning the 2022 US Open. With such obvious talent already being put to use, expect Alacaraz to remain on top for quite some time.
Casper Ruud – Current ranking: No. 3
Although he was beaten to his maiden Grand Slam by Alcaraz, Ruud still looks to be in for a promising career. The 23-year-old Norwegian had a great 2022, featuring in two grand slam finals. His second ended in defeat at the French Open via Rafael Nadal, although Nadal is known as a specialist on clay and this win extended his record to 14. Regardless, it seems only a matter of time before he wins his first major.
Stefanos Tsitsipas – Current ranking: No. 4
At 24-years-old, Tsitsipas is already the highest-ranked Greek tennis player of all time. Although he is yet to win a Grand Slam final, he did win the 2019 ATP Finals, becoming the youngest champion of the year-end championships in eighteen years. He is an all-court player known for his powerful groundstroke winners, but is particularly strong on clay, having grown up playing on that surface in Greece.
Felix Auger-Aliassime – Current ranking: No. 6
This 22-year-old Canadian continues to rise up the ATP rankings during his promising young career. A great player on clay, he is able to generate power easily off both wings and boasts a great forehand. Coached by Rafael Nadal’s uncle and ex-coach Toni, he turned pro in 2017 and began to hit his stride in 2021. He reached the semi-final of the US Open that year, losing in straight sets to Daniil Medvedev though still keeping it competitive. He has won The Rotterdam Open 500, The Florence Open, European Open, and the Swiss Indoors and will be hoping for at least a Grand Slam final appearance in 2023.