Australian Open Upset: Teenager Learner Tien's Epic Victory

You've just defeated three-time Australian Open runner-up Daniil Medvedev in an exhausting five-set match that didn't finish until almost 3am. How do you celebrate after beating a former world number one? Eating a pizza, of course.

Appearing at his post-match media conference, a ravenous Learner Tien chomped down on slices of pepperoni pizza as he reflected on his 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (8/10), 1-6, 7-6 (10/7) win over Medvedev. "It was either going to be celebratory or a binge eat … it feels better, it's more celebratory, for sure," Tien told reporters.

Tien had reason to treat himself after emerging victorious from an engrossing encounter lasting 4 hours and 49 minutes on Margaret Court Arena. The result meant the 19-year-old qualifier — ranked 121 in the world — is the youngest American since Pete Sampras in 1990 to reach the men's third round. Before this week, Tien had a 0-3 win-loss record at the majors. His only other five-set match at the tour level came in the first round at Melbourne Park.

The Match: A Five-Set Battle

The four-hour, 49-minute match was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring a six-minute rain delay that interrupted play shortly before 2:30 am with Tien serving at 5-5 in the fifth set. When play resumed, Medvedev broke and served for the match at 6-5, but Tien, displaying incredible resilience, broke back and forced a deciding tiebreaker, which he won shortly before 3 am. This victory came about two hours after he had failed to convert his initial match point in the third set.

The contrast between the two players was stark. Tien, the world No. 121, had a career grand slam record of 0-3 before this week; Medvedev, seeded No. 5, was a former US Open champion and a three-time runner-up at Melbourne Park. Despite the difference in experience, Tien played fearlessly, consistently winning lengthy rallies. Across the first two sets, he won 32 of the 51 points that lasted nine or more strokes, demonstrating his surprising ability to handle long exchanges and outlast his more experienced opponent.

Medvedev's Frustration

Medvedev showed signs of frustration throughout the match, reflecting his struggles to maintain control. He displayed his frustration by destroying a net camera with his racket, and tossing his equipment to the sideline. His anger was further fueled by point penalties for foot faults and a double fault during the second-set tiebreaker. This was Medvedev’s first tournament of the season – his wife recently gave birth to their second child – and he was never his best self throughout the match. He tried to shift tactics by pushing forward to the net, but Tien held his ground and broke back, taking the lead at 5-4 after a penalty point was awarded to Tien.

The Aftermath: Pizza and Reflections

After the match, Tien celebrated his win, addressing the crowd: “I really appreciate all you guys staying out here. I know it’s late. I have no idea what time it is.” Due to the time difference, the match ended around 8 am in California. He took a moment to address his family watching from afar: “I don’t know if my parents are still watching… I love you guys. Thank you for always supporting me from across the world. I know you guys wish you could be here. I wish you could be here, too.”

Despite having the chance to win in straight sets, Tien missed a match point in the third. However, he remained calm and focused, emphasizing his approach: “I think coming into my match today, I was just trying to treat it like any other match I ever played. Not putting too much importance on just this match today, feeling like this is the biggest match of my life or anything like that. I think just taking the positives from this match and looking forward to the next one and moving on.”

The Youngest American Since Sampras

Tien’s victory is noteworthy, making him the youngest American to reach the third round of the Australian Open since Pete Sampras in 1990. His previous record at Grand Slam tournaments was 0-3 before this tournament. This incredible feat is a testament to his talent and determination. This win propels Tien into the third round, where he will face Corentin Moutet, adding another layer of excitement to his remarkable Australian Open journey. More pizza might be on the menu if he wins, but he plans to adjust his toppings: “Not too many pepperonis (sic), more just cheese.”

This unprecedented win is also a triumph for American tennis, marking a significant milestone for the next generation of talented players, including several teenagers performing brilliantly in the tournament. Learner Tien's journey has only just begun. His future in professional tennis remains bright. His story is one of perseverance, and it will certainly inspire and motivate many aspiring tennis players worldwide. This young man has a bright future ahead of him.