Since the 2020 season has ended, Tennis Canada announced its Most Excellence Awards winners of the year. Canada’s finest Milos Raonic received the male Player of the Year for the 8 time in his career. The 18-year-old Leylah Fernandez became Canada’s female Player of the Year on account of her wins against top players. Furthermore, Denis Shapovalov, Gabriela Dabrowski, and Vasek Pospisil are also among the ones who obtained awards.

Being the most successful tennis player for his country, Milos has reached the highest rank of Number 3. This year, he reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open and the finals of the Western and Southern Open. At both events, the 29 years-old lost to World No. 1 Novak Djokovic. However, he has managed to stay in the Top 15 players of the season at Number 14.

Canadian teenager registers first win against top ten player

The future of tennis in Canada is brighter than ever as many players compete at the biggest of the tournaments. Even the teenager Leylah Annie Fernandez made her Grand Slam debut at Melbourne Park this year.

She registered her biggest win against Top 10 player Belinda Bencic in the Fed Cup qualifying round. The 18-year-old even caused an upset to Grand Slam winner Sloane Stephens at Monterrey Open. She reached her first WTA Tour final in Acapulco and concluded her season inside the Top 100 players.

As for Denis Shapovalov and Gabriela Dabrowski, they both won the male and female Doubles Player of the Year, respectively. The 21-year-old Denis also had a convincing singles’ season as he breached the Top 10 rankings.

But his doubles’ performance is unparalleled to any in his country; he is among the 50 best doubles players in the world. His compatriot and 30-year-old Vasek Pospisil earned the Most Improved Player of the Year honor. Tennis Canada President and CEO Michael Downey suggested that his players are ready for anything in 2021.

Tennis world waiting for 2021; Australian Open still uncertain

Amidst the pandemic, the organizers of the Australian Open will leave no stones unturned for players’ safety. Previously, the major tournament had confirmed its commencement date, but those dates have now been called in question again.

Despite the uncertainties, the players have started their pre-season training and are gearing up for 2021. The next season is anticipated to see top players return, such as Roger Federer and Andy Murray.

Also Read: “Lives So Much in the Present”: Former Olympic Gold Medalist Optimistic About Roger Federer’s Comeback in 2021