In an electrifying late-night showdown, 19-year-old Learner Tien, a rising star from Irvine, California, delivered the match of his career by defeating three-time Australian Open finalist and former World No. 1 Daniil Medvedev. The epic battle at Melbourne’s Margaret Court Arena lasted an intense four hours and 49 minutes, culminating in a 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-7 (8), 1-6, 7-6 (7) victory for the American teenager.
Emerging from the qualifiers, Tien showcased incredible composure and grit against the World No. 5. He raced through the first set, fought back from a break down in the second to win a tiebreak, and weathered Medvedev’s ferocious comeback in the third and fourth sets. Despite a rain delay and mounting pressure, Tien’s resilience shone in the fifth set, where he clinched victory in a thrilling 10-point tiebreak.
“I know I made it a lot harder than it could have been,” Tien quipped post-match, visibly drained yet elated.
Medvedev, who has been a dominant force on hard courts, struggled to find his rhythm early in the match. Despite his late resurgence, he couldn’t fend off Tien’s relentless energy and precise shot-making. The Russian’s rustiness, owing to a delayed season start, was evident, especially after his grueling five-set opener.
For Tien, this victory marks a milestone in his young career. A former junior standout and 2023 Australian Open boys’ singles finalist, Tien has been steadily making waves on the ATP circuit. His next challenge awaits in the third round against France’s Corentin Moutet.
As the clock ticked past 3 AM, Tien soaked in the cheers from the crowd, marking the biggest win of his career so far. The future looks bright for the left-handed Californian as he eyes deeper runs in the world’s biggest tournaments.
FAQs
1. Who is Learner Tien?
Learner Tien is a 19-year-old tennis player from Irvine, California, known for his strong junior career and recent breakthrough at the Australian Open 2025.
2. What is Daniil Medvedev’s ranking?
Daniil Medvedev is currently ranked World No. 5.
3. How long did the Tien vs. Medvedev match last?
The match lasted four hours and 49 minutes.
4. Who will Tien face next in the Australian Open?
Tien will play France’s Corentin Moutet in the third round.
5. What is Tien’s biggest career achievement so far?
His victory over Medvedev at the Australian Open 2025 is his biggest career achievement to date.
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