The Next Gen contingent
This week marks the first time Stefanos Tsitsipas has cracked the world’s top five at the age of 20. Already the highest ranked Greek male player of all time, he will be hoping to spring a surprise at the Rogers Cup. 12 months ago Tsitsipas reached his first ever Masters final at the tournament before losing to Nadal.
Another rising star hoping to make his mark is Felix Auger-Aliassime, who is the youngest man currently ranked in the top 100. The Canadian has experienced a strong 2019 season so far and has risen more than 80 places in the rankings since January. Currently placed at 21st, he is on the verge of cracking the world’s top 20 for the first time.
“I’m feeling really good,” he told The Canadian Press. “I’m playing well. I’m having a really nice season. I really trust my abilities right now. I’m doing good things.
“My service game has improved this year. It’s allowed me to perform better on all surfaces. I’ve become more consistent — fewer highs and lows.”
Auger-Aliassime has already contested three ATP Finals in 2019. Two on the clay and one of the grass. His rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. One of the latest players to praise him is world No.2 Nadal.
“I like his character,” said Nadal. “He’s a very well-educated and nice guy. He’s very passionate about the sport. He’s one of the players that I would love to see at the top position and winning trophies because I think he deserves it.”
Other Next Gen players to watch out for include Taylor Fritz, who has reached the final of his past two tournaments in Atlanta and Los Cabos. Meanwhile, Denis Shapovalov will be hoping to cause a stir in the draw with the help of his home crowd supporting him.
