The phrase "runner ups" refers to the people or teams who finish in second place in a competition or contest. They are not the winners but are the next best performers. Full definition
Both teams finished as runners up in their respective leagues last season and were keen on preparing to improve on the upcoming season. (1000goals.com)
My close second runner up for a night cream? (witwhimsy.com)
I went and grabbed my spot as runner up bikini universe. (fitoverfat.com)