Learner Tien openly discusses the biggest idol in his career

The Vietnamese-American player made significant breakthroughs in 2025 and is expected to go even further.

In the elite tennis world, nearly every professional player has an ideal role model—someone who inspires them, ignites their passion, and motivates them to pursue the demanding tennis career. For the young Vietnamese-American player— Learner Tien, that role model is Carlos Alcaraz—the current face of the global tennis scene.

At just 20 years old, Learner Tien is regarded as one of the most promising young talents in men's tennis. Recently, Tien claimed the title at the Next Gen ATP Finals 2025 —a tournament featuring the world’s best under-20 players, serving as a launchpad for rising stars to prove themselves on the ATP Tour level.

In an interview with the media before the tournament, Tien candidly shared his journey of following and admiring tennis. According to the young American, Carlos Alcaraz was the first player who truly drew him into watching top-level tennis matches. Although their age difference is small, Alcaraz is far ahead in achievements and influence.

Tien mentioned that he began following Alcaraz around 2021, when the Spanish player started gaining significant attention on the ATP Tour. Carlitos’s energetic performances, modern attacking style, and remarkable mental strength gradually deepened Tien’s love for tennis. To him, Alcaraz is not just a star but a true source of inspiration.

When asked about the title "Greatest Tennis Player of All Time," Learner Tien was cautious. He admitted it’s difficult to choose because tennis history has seen many legends with unforgettable marks. According to the Vietnamese-American player, each generation has its own icons, all deserving recognition.