American teenager Learner Tien delivered a stunning upset at the Australian Open, defeating last year’s runner-up Daniil Medvedev in a grueling five-set match that lasted nearly five hours. The final score was 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-7 (8), 1-6, 7-6 (7). This victory marks a significant milestone in Tien’s young career, as he not only secured his first win in a Grand Slam tournament but also became the youngest American to reach the third round of the Australian Open since Pete Sampras 35 years ago.
The match showcased Tien’s resilience as he had the chance to conclude the match in the third set with a match point before Medvedev fought back. Despite Medvedev’s attempts to seize control with a comeback, Tien took an early lead in the final set and excelled in the decisive tiebreak, showcasing remarkable composure. With this win, Tien is now poised to face unseeded Frenchman Corentin Moutet in the next round.
Ranked 121st in the world, Tien’s progress comes after a series of first-round exits in previous Grand Slam appearances, making this victory a significant achievement. His victory against Medvedev, who has finished as runner-up in three of the last four Australian Opens, marks Medvedev’s earliest elimination from the tournament since 2018.
This triumph reflects not only Tien’s determination and potential but also the rising trend of young talents making their mark on the professional circuit. Alongside him, Brazilian 18-year-old Joao Fonseca recently made headlines by defeating ninth-seed Andrey Rublev before being ousted in the second round, emphasizing the competitive spirit among the younger generation in tennis.
In summary, Learner Tien’s unforgettable victory over Daniil Medvedev at the Australian Open is a testament to his skill and potential as an emerging talent in the sport. Tennis fans can look forward to his upcoming match against Moutet as Tien continues to make a name for himself on the global stage.