Mexico City. Learner Tien had already begun to earn his place on the ATP circuit, but his victory at the Next Gen ATP Finals on Sunday was a much stronger statement of intent.
After losing to Joao Fonseca in last year’s Jeddah final, the American carried that disappointment into a spectacular 2025 season, before returning to the under-20 tournament as the man to beat.
But under rising expectations, Tien showed maturity beyond his years and saved his best tennis for a stunning 59-minute display over Alexander Blockx in the final.
“It’s great to add my name to the list of previous winners,” said Tien, who joined Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner as tournament champions. “I think all the players who have won this tournament have been very successful, so it means a lot to be up there with those names.”
“I’ve waited a year to lift this trophy… It’s a fantastic feeling, especially after coming so close last year.”
A key pillar of Tien’s rise has been his collaboration with former world No. 2 Michael Chang, which began in August. Chang has since helped the 20-year-old to his first ATP Tour title in Metz and a career-high world No. 28 ranking.
Equally important, Chang’s family has become part of Tien’s support system, including Chang’s son Micah, who was on the court cheering him on in the final in Jeddah.
“Since we started working together, he and his entire family have been very supportive,” Tien said. “Micah has been present at many of my tournaments… It’s always nice to have him around. He brings a fun touch, makes the matches and some of those tense moments a little more relaxed.” (With information from ATP)
