Tien wins maiden ATP trophy in Metz, holding nerves against Norrie
American Learner Tien edged out Britain’s seventh seed Cameron Norrie 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (8-6) in an enthralling final lasting two hours and 12 minutes.
Learner Tien, Metz 2025 | © Ch. Caillaud / PsNewz
American Learner Tien fought off a third-set full of ups and downs and clinched the Moselle Open title on Saturday, defeating Britain’s seventh seed Cameron Norrie 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (6) in a gripping final that lasted two hours and 12 minutes.
The victory marks the 19-year-old Tien’s first career ATP Tour title, making him the youngest American to win an ATP event since Andy Roddick captured the Houston title in 2002.
Tien showcased solid nerves and resilience in the decisive set. After initially leading 3-0 and later 4-2 in the third, he faced a steep challenge, including recovering from a 1-5 deficit in the match-deciding tiebreak before eventually prevailing 8-6. The two players were simultaneously two points away from the win at 5-5 and 6-6 in the last tie break.
Tien Is the second youngest since… Djokovic
Throughout the contest, Tien proved clutch on serve, saving seven of the nine break points he faced. Despite Norrie winning five more total points (101 to 96) in the high-stakes battle, the American teenager found the extra gear when it mattered most.
The result makes Tien the ninth first-time ATP Tour champion this season and the second youngest player to ever lift the Metz trophy after Novak Djokovic’s win in 2006.
The triumph propels Tien into the Top 30 for the first time, ensuring a World No. 28 ranking on Monday and securing him a seed at the upcoming Australian Open. For Norrie, the loss is his second consecutive defeat in the Moselle Open final and prevents his return to the Top 25 of the ATP rankings. The Briton remains in search of his first title since his triumph at the 2023 Rio de Janeiro Open.
