Reviewing the past champions of the ATP Next Gen Finals: Aslan Karatsev made the list, but one player faded too soon!

As the week comes to an end, the ATP Next Gen Finals will kick off as scheduled next week. Before that happens, let’s review the champions from previous editions.

2017 Hyeon Chung

In the first edition, Asian player Hyeon Chung performed brilliantly, surprisingly taking the championship. At the next year’s Australian Open, he defeated the Melbourne legend Djokovic and advanced to the semifinals. However, his peak seemed to consume his luck, as injuries have troubled him since, preventing him from reclaiming those high moments.

2018 Stefanos Tsitsipas

Also a young rising star! Tsitsipas triumphed in this edition as well. Like Chung, the Greek player defeated a major figure at the following Australian Open—Federer. When he first reached the ATP Finals, he won the title, achieving the rare feat of back-to-back Next Gen and ATP Finals championships.

2019 Jannik Sinner

2021 Carlos Alcaraz

These two rising stars won consecutively, demonstrating their exceptional talent and standing out among their peers. Now, Sinner holds two ATP Finals titles, while Alcaraz reached the final for the first time this year, with a championship likely on the horizon.

2022 Brandon Nakashima

This American player has also secured a tour-level title. Although not as prominent as some compatriots, he has established himself firmly in the global tennis scene, with rankings hovering near Grand Slam seed positions.

2023 Miomir Kecmanović

This younger player, once sponsored by Djokovic to continue his tennis dream, finally lived up to expectations by winning a highly competitive tournament the year before last. Compared to retired Krajnović and the fading Lajović and Kecmanović, he is expected to be a strong ally for Djokovic. Yet, there is still a long road ahead if he wants to successfully take over the mantle.

2024 João Fonseca

The young Brazilian has carried immense expectations since his debut. If previously he was sometimes placed in the spotlight with mixed results, this season’s double crown victory has raised anticipation further. From winning a 250 to a 500 tournament, and from first to second titles in less than a season, we have every reason to believe he will continue to progress in his career.

In this year’s competition, Menéndez, who won the Miami Masters, was the top favorite but was unable to participate due to unforeseen reasons. Among the eight players, who do you think has the best chance to win? Feel free to share your predictions!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Luo Cheng Qiye)