Crossword Genius

Runner-up to exchange roles (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

loser

'runner-up' is the definition.
(runner-up can mean anyone other than the winner)

'exchange roles' is the wordplay.
'exchange' is an anagram indicator.
'roles' with letters rearranged gives 'LOSER'.

'to' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for loser that I've seen before include "One failing regularly" , "Person who's a failure" , "lemon" , "One who frequently fails (colloq.)" , "Winner's opponent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.
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