Vietnamese-American tennis player Learner Tien claims the most prestigious junior title in the world

Learner Tien completely controlled the final to officially change the color of his medal at this event gathering the best 8 young players of 2025.

The young American player of Vietnamese descent - Learner Tien crowned champion Next Gen ATP Finals 2025 after a convincing 3-0 victory (4-3; 4-2; 4-1) over Belgian opponent Alexander Blockx in the final held early morning on December 22, Hanoi time.

Next Gen ATP Finals – the world’s most prestigious junior tournament, featuring the top 8 U20 players of the year – uses a special format where each set is won by reaching 4 games, with no advantage scoring, creating a fast pace and demanding high adaptability.

In this context, Tien demonstrated outstanding maturity by controlling the match, maintaining composure, and minimizing errors. The American player made only 12 unforced errors, nearly half of Blockx’s 23, securing the win in under an hour of play.

After the match, Tien admitted he was mentally prepared for a tough battle. According to the Vietnamese-American player, Blockx served very well in the first one and a half sets and kept a high level throughout the week, putting significant pressure on the top seed.

On court, Blockx started aggressively. The Belgian player recorded 7 aces, far surpassing Tien’s single ace. Blockx’s strategy was clear: repeatedly targeting Tien’s backhand with fast serves and frequently approaching the net to apply pressure.

However, the difference was in handling critical moments. Currently ranked 28th in the world, Tien displayed calmness and creativity in decisive points. Coached by legend Michael Chang, he played solidly, dominating the long rallies to clinch the final victory.

Thus, Learner Tien successfully upgraded his medal at the Next Gen ATP Finals after last year’s loss to Joao Fonseca in the final, and also avenged his defeat to Alexander Blockx in the 2023 junior Australian Open final. A perfect conclusion to a breakthrough season for the 20-year-old player.

Tien will not have the chance to defend his Next Gen ATP Finals title as he will exceed the age limit for next season’s competition.