Learner Tien beat Cameron Norrie 6-3 3-6 7-6 (8-6) in a thrilling final at the Moselle Open in Metz to win his first ATP Tour title
Tien has become the first US teenager to win an ATP title since Andy Roddick in 2002.
Tien earned his first break in the fourth game to win the first set 6-3. Norrie converted his sixth break point in the fourth game to win the second set 6-3.
Tien went up an early break in the second game of the third set. The US player earned two break points when he was leading 4-1 in the third set. Norrie fought back by winning three consecutive games to draw level to 4-4 including a break in the seventh game. Norrie was two points from defeat in the 10th game, but the British player held serve to draw level to 5-5. Norrie started the tie-break with a mini-break and raced out to a 5-1 lead, but Tien pulled back on serve to draw level to 5-5 by smashing a return past Norrie when the British player was at the net. Tien earned a championship point at 6-5 but Norrie saved it. Tien converted his second championship point on Norrie’s serve to seal the tie-break 8-6.
It’s really special to me. It was a big goal I had coming into the season. It was the last week of the year. I really wanted to make it happen. So, it means a lot. I’ve not had a lot of coaches, but I’ve been fortunate enough to have the coaches I’ve had my whole life. I think everyone’s played their role in me, as a person, in my game. I’m very thankful for everyone that’s helped me. Obviously, my parents. My dad is my first coach. I talked to him right after the match. A lot of people to thank and a lot of people I’m very grateful for”, said Tien.
