Crossword Genius

Runner-up in close race? (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

loser

'runner-up' is the definition.

'in close race?' is the wordplay.
'in' indicates a hidden word.
'LOSER' is hidden in the letters of 'close race'.

(Other definitions for loser that I've seen before include "Defeated person" , "Unsuccessful type" , "One who is (always) unsuccessful" , "one plays without success" , "No-hoper" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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