WordNet sense 1 (a competitor thought likely to win):

favorite, front-runner

WordNet sense 2 (a special loved one):

darling, dearie, ducky, pet, deary

WordNet sense 3 (regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public):

popular

WordNet sense 4 (preferred above all others and treated with partiality):

favored, preferred, best-loved, preferent

WordNet sense 5 (held dear):

loved