“Leaving a Positive Mark”: Felix Auger-Aliassime Reflects on Rare Honor After Inspiring Performance at US Open 2021

Playing consistent tennis at the highest level would be difficult for most players and there are few exceptions to this. A highly talented performer, who has reached the fourth round in three out of the four slam this year, Felix Auger-Aliassime is a youngster who needs no introduction for the tennis world.

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Felix Auger-Aliassime lost to Daniil Medvedev in US Open semis

After announcing his entry to the ATP tour by reaching the finals of 2019 Rio Open where he lost to Cristian Garin, Felix has made the finals in seven more occasions and couldn’t capture a title. Even this year, the Canadian reached the finals of two tournaments and lost both of them.

However, the US Open fortnight turned out be a memorable one for Felix as he managed to reach his first-ever grand slam semi-final when Carlos Alcaraz gave a mid-match walkover in the quarters due to injury.

In New York, Felix surpassed the likes of Roberto Bautista Agut and Frances Tiafoe before bowing out in straight sets against Daniil Medvedev. Despite this tough loss, the youngster can leave New York on a positive note considering his performance.

Felix has always maintained decent conduct on and off the court

Even in Wimbledon, Felix reached the quarter-finals before he was outlasted by Matteo Berrettini in four sets. Known for his ability to cut-short points and hit winners from anywhere on the baseline, Felix Auger-Aliassime also possesses a killer serve to go along with his menacing forehand.

Despite not tasting a title victory yet on the ATP tour, Felix Auger-Aliassime has become one of the popular stars in the locker room for his demeanor off-court. Right from the start of his short career, the Canadian has been involved in philanthropic work by helping children from his father’s homeland, Togo.

Considering his conduct both on and off the court, it’s safe to say that Felix Auger-Aliassime is one of the most admired players on the ATP tour currently and most tennis fans would be elated to see him win a title or two in the rest of the season.

The Canadian talks about USTA’s rare honor at US Open 2021

Acknowledging Felix’s conduct on and off the court, the USTA felicitated the youngster with “‘US Open Sportsperson of the year’ award. On the women’s circuit, Ashleigh Barty received this honorary title.

Talking about the honor, Felix mentioned that the impact he creates on others is far important to him than winning matches/titles.

“The wins are great, but the impact you have on others … that’s truly what it’s about, for me, in life. I’m happy I’m leaving a positive mark”.

The idea of this award is to recognize tennis players who display exceptional sportsmanship during the US hard-court season. It’s a way to inspire youngsters to inculcate the idea of playing fair and respecting the opponent on-court.

By winning this award, the Canadian joins an elite bunch of former recipients like Roger Federer, Kei Nishikori, Naomi Osaka, Juan Martin del Potro, and Angelique Kerber. It’s a great recognition indeed for Felix Auger-Aliassime as more victories and accolades await the youngster in his long journey.

Also read: MASTERCLASS! Daniil Medvedev Dominates Maiden US Open Semifinalist Felix Auger-Aliassime to Reach Final