Learner Tien Powers Into Australian Open Third Round
MELBOURNE, 23 January 2026 – American sensation Learner Tien has continued his impressive run at the Australian Open, securing a convincing four-set victory over Alexander Shevchenko to book his place in the tournament’s third round. The 20-year-old, seeded 25th, now sets his sights on a showdown with Portugal’s Nuno Borges as he aims to match his fourth-round appearance from last year.
Commanding Performance Against Shevchenko
Tien displayed both resilience and dominance in his 6-2, 5-7, 6-1, 6-0 triumph over Kazakhstan’s Shevchenko on Wednesday 21 January. After splitting the opening two sets, the American left-hander raised his level dramatically, dropping just one game across the final two sets to seal the match in emphatic fashion. Tien produced nine aces and 40 winners throughout the encounter, showcasing the aggressive baseline game that has propelled him to a career-high ranking of world number 29.
Surviving Early Tournament Scare
The young American’s campaign nearly ended before it properly began, requiring a dramatic five-set comeback in his opening match. Facing compatriot Marcos Giron on Monday 19 January, Tien found himself trailing two sets to one before mounting a stirring recovery to prevail 7-6(2), 4-6, 3-6, 7-6(3), 6-2 in three hours and 43 minutes. That victory was built on remarkable serving statistics, including 21 aces and 68 winners, while saving 67% of break points faced.
Key Player Statistics & Tournament Journey
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Ranking | ATP World No. 29 (Career High) |
| Age & Nationality | 20 years old, American (Vietnamese Chinese heritage) |
| 2026 Australian Open Results | R128: d. Marcos Giron 7-6(2), 4-6, 3-6, 7-6(3), 6-2 R64: d. Alexander Shevchenko 6-2, 5-7, 6-1, 6-0 |
| Next Opponent | Nuno Borges (Portugal) – Third Round |
| Potential Fourth-Round Matchup | Daniil Medvedev (11th seed) or Fabian Marozsan |
| Career Titles | 2025 Metz ATP 250, 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals |
Rising Star on the ATP Tour
Tien’s current success in Melbourne continues a remarkable ascent that began in earnest during the 2025 season. The Californian-born player captured his maiden ATP title in Metz last November, defeating Cameron Norrie in a thrilling final, before claiming the prestigious Next Gen ATP Finals crown in Jeddah the following month. His breakthrough 2025 campaign also included a fourth-round appearance at the Australian Open, where he notably defeated former champion Daniil Medvedev.
Path Ahead in Melbourne
The immediate challenge for Tien comes in the form of Portugal’s Nuno Borges, an unseeded opponent who nevertheless presents a significant obstacle. Borges advanced to the third round after Felix Auger-Aliassime retired from their match. Should Tien navigate this test, a potential fourth-round clash with 11th seed Daniil Medvedev awaits – a rematch of their epic five-set encounter from last year’s tournament, which Tien won in a final-set tiebreak.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Learner Tien’s next opponent at the Australian Open?
Tien will face Portugal’s Nuno Borges in the third round of the Australian Open. Borges is an unseeded player who advanced after his second-round opponent, Felix Auger-Aliassime, retired from their match.
What is Learner Tien’s best Grand Slam result?
Tien’s best Grand Slam performance to date is reaching the fourth round of the 2025 Australian Open. He is now just one victory away from matching that achievement at the 2026 tournament.
What is notable about Learner Tien’s background?
Born in California to parents of Vietnamese Chinese heritage, Tien has spoken about his family’s journey and how it has influenced his approach to tennis. He turned professional in 2023 and is currently coached by Eric Diaz.