Tien: "I don't have any specific goal, I just want to keep improving"

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Learner Tien continues to steadily rise without making much noise, both in his tennis and in the ATP ranking. The American will leave Delray Beach with his best position in the rankings (22nd or 21st) and displaying significant improvement in one of his weakest areas: the serve.

The 20-year-old won a tightly contested match in three sets against Frances Tiafoe, where his compatriot was ahead 5-3 in the third set but Tien managed to turn it around and clinch victory by 7-6(5), 3-6, 7-5, thanks in part to the twenty aces he served.

His serve has been one of the aspects where the American has improved the most, with a style less aggressive and powerful than most of the circuit, but showcasing a strong defense, and above all, a great tactical sense that sets him apart. Tien is starting to carve out a place among the world's best with his uncomfortable style. This was evident at the Australian Open, where he made a name for himself last year and this season triumphed again over Daniil Medvedev in a true display, while exiting gallantly against Alexander Zverev in the quarterfinals.

However, the Californian has no specific goals in mind and keeps his feet on the ground, focusing solely on improving his tennis, as he has done with his serve over the past year. He confirmed this in the post-match mixed zone interview, where he also discussed his match management with coach Michael Chang, his time at university, and his fondness for Australia.

Learner Tien talked about his great form and his upcoming goals

"I don't have any specific goal, I just want to keep improving, and this American tour is where you want to perform well in all tournaments. It's amazing to play at home, but regarding the ATP ranking, I have no set target."

A completely different serve

"I've spent a lot of time working on my serve, and it's still a work in progress because there are areas I can enhance, but the improvements are noticeable in some matches, and it's really motivating."

About his relationship with Michael Chang

"Sometimes I look over to him, but I'm not a player who looks at his team after every point or game. However, there are moments in the match when I'm not thinking clearly, so it's great to have my team there supporting me."

About his comeback against Frances Tiafoe in the Delray Beach quarterfinals

"Last year I lost here in a third-set tiebreak, so it's nice to secure the victory now, especially after losing the second set and being 5-3 down in the third. It's a great feeling."

Fond memories of his brief time at university

"I think university was beneficial for my maturity. I was very young when I went, and it was great to have time for myself. I didn't play many tournaments, but I really enjoyed competing in those environments."

A special connection with the Australian Open

"When I returned to the Australian Open this year, it didn't feel like a year had passed. Time flies by quickly, and I try to enjoy it to the fullest, but I always enjoy playing in Melbourne and strive to perform at my best," concludes Learner Tien, who is progressing well and aims to reach the final of the Delray Beach by defeating Tommy Paul.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Tien: "No tengo ningún objetivo concreto, solo quiero seguir mejorando"