The debate over Rusedski's British-ness was quickly abandoned by the end of 1997.

At the US Open, he became the first Briton since 1978 to reach a Grand Slam final, falling to Pat Rafter in four sets. His achievement was overshadowed by Princess Diana's death a week before the final, but recognition came later in the year with the BBC Sports Personality award.

"What emerged in New York was the extraordinary dignity with which Rusedski has accepted his indifferent reception in Britain," noted Guardian journalist Paul Hayward. "The sneering will have to stop. Rusedski's conversion has been total and apparently sincere."