The Hidden Reason Behind Learner Tien's Explosion, the Latest Revelation of the ATP Circuit

Carlos Navarro | 6 Oct 2025 | 19.16

Learner Tien continues surfing a big wave on this Asian tour. Source: Getty

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Learner Tien is learning faster and faster. Only 19 years have passed for a creature who has entered the ATP circuit to stay and who, much to everyone's surprise, has made a very significant qualitative leap in this Asian tour. There is little left of that slender player, talented but with limited stamina, who surprised Medvedev in Australia to make himself known: the last three weeks have revealed a new side of Tien that significantly raises his potential.

With a timeless playing style, different from the usual in the 21st century, a physique that doesn't attract much attention, and an intelligence in the distribution of his shots that makes him stand out, Learner Tien promised to be one of those outsiders who bring a lot of color to the ATP circuit. Lack of power to be a regular contender? The American has promised himself to find a way to mask this deficit, and at ATP Shanghai 2025, he proves once again, despite the humidity and very slow conditions, that he is ready for any challenge.

Looking at Tien's recent results highlights a particularly striking aspect. For someone so slender, far from having a gladiator's physique, the stifling weather conditions in Asia could be a problem. However, logic doesn't matter much to a guy who has worked very hard to improve and add new layers to his tennis. The result? Quarterfinals in Hangzhou, runner-up in Beijing, and already in the round of 16 in Shanghai, with three new victories of great merit.

To reach this round, where he will once again face Daniil Medvedev, the American not only put aside the weariness of the week in Beijing: he came back from behind in his first-round match against Kecmanovic, as well as in the second round against Moutet, and finally convincingly defeated Norrie in the third round. Is it a coincidence? Not at all: in the Chinese capital last week, Learner achieved comebacks against Cerúndolo, Musetti, and Medvedev, as well as against Navone in Hangzhou. In total, six matches in three tournaments where the diminutive Learner loses the first set... and ends up physically overwhelming his opponents, displaying a previously unknown durability. How is this possible?

The new secret of a Learner Tien who is already threatening the ATP ranking's top 30

After defeating Norrie in the penultimate Masters 1000 of the year, Tien emphasized a capacity for endurance and resilience that surprises both friends and strangers. "I feel that I approach these matches with the calmness that I can go all the way, regardless of what my opponent does or plans. Going onto the court with that peace of mind, knowing that, no matter the conditions, I can adapt and endure these long matches, gives me a lot of confidence", noted Learner, who never imagined the results he is achieving on this Asian tour.

"It's the first time I've played this tour and landed in Asia; I had never played here before, so I didn't come with many expectations. I had no idea what the atmosphere would be like or anything, but it's clear that I have loved it so far. Knowing that I can 'steal' some matches where I'm way behind has filled me with confidence, and the most important thing is that I always believe I can get away with it", said the American with a smile on his face.

Elusive, with more lives than a cat and a physique that complements the 'artisanal' element of his tennis: just one victory away from the top 30 in the ATP Race, Learner Tien is threatening, for the first time, to become a seed in a Grand Slam. With more resources than ever, let one of his recent victims prepare himself, Daniil Medvedev, whom he will face in the round of 16 in Shanghai. Will he achieve his particular hat-trick against the Russian?

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El motivo oculto de la explosión de Learner Tien, la última revelación del circuito ATP

Learner Tien