Learner Tien overcomes challenges with an impressive debut at the 2025 Shanghai Masters.

Despite the short preparation period following his runner-up finish at the ATP Beijing, Learner Tien showed a strong performance in his first round against Miomir Kecmanovic at the 2025 Shanghai Masters.

The young Vietnamese-American player, Learner Tien, fought hard to win his opening match at the ATP 1000 Shanghai Masters 2025, defeating Miomir Kecmanovic 2-1 (4-6; 6-3; 6-4) this afternoon on October 3rd, Hanoi time.

Compared to other players, Learner Tien played his first-round match later because he had just secured the runner-up title at the 2025 China Open in Beijing only two days ago. This short interval impacted Tien’s preparation for the changes in court surface, ball type, and the relatively harsh climate conditions in Shanghai.

Tien lost a break-point early in the first game. Although he immediately broke back, the Vietnamese-American player dropped his service game again shortly after, allowing Kecmanovic to take a 3-1 lead.

Kecmanovic didn’t score many aces (1 compared to Tien’s 7 in the first set) and wasn’t as agile as the younger opponent—partly due to his somewhat heavier build—but the Serbian player delivered powerful shots and skillfully directed the ball to two corners, making it difficult for Tien to defend. Djokovic’s junior only faced one break-point threat for the rest of the set, which he easily saved, winning 6-4 to take a 1-0 lead.

In the second set, Learner Tien returned strongly with his signature smart counterattacking defense. Kecmanovic’s play dropped off, losing a break-point in the fourth game and failing to capitalize on any mistakes from Tien, ultimately losing 3-6 and forcing a decisive final set.

With heightened confidence, Tien delivered a flawless performance in the third set, not allowing Kecmanovic to exploit any errors. His defensive counterattack style was highly effective as his opponent grew impatient and lost crucial points in a pivotal game. Tien made no mistakes afterward, closing the match 2-1 and advancing to the second round.

Learner Tien’s next opponent at this year’s Shanghai Masters will be the 33rd seed from France, Corentin Moutet, who was promoted to the seeded group after Carlos Alcaraz withdrew.

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