Tien sets-up all-American NextGen semifinal duel

Learner Tien set-up an all-American last-four clash against close friend Alex Michelsen at the NextGen ATP Finals on Friday by knocking out top seed and 2023 runner-up Arthur Fils.

The 19-year-old Tien, who has risen to 122 in the world after starting the year at a lowly 453, shocked his 20th-ranked French opponent 4-2, 4-2, 3-4 (4/7), 4-3 (7/5).

"I thought I played really well today. It was great to rebound and have a good match after getting chopped by Joao Fonseca yesterday," said Tien who avenged a loss to Fils in the first round of the US Open in August.

Michelsen wrapped up his group commitments with a third successive victory when China's Shang Juncheng retired from their clash in the second set.

France's Luca Van Assche claimed the remaining semifinal spot by seeing off Nishesh Basavareddy of the United States 3-4 (2/7), 4-3 (9/7), 4-2, 4-2.

Lol Learner Tien's post-match itw 🫠 he's been in Alex Michelsen's box for some time & even practiced together last month but it'll be their 1st meeting after ages-

Said he had short-term memory of Ls & treat this like any other match- fair, then!

🎥 TCpic.twitter.com/ZZehEmnsc1

— stateofsport21 // raz (she/her) (@eretzsport022) December 20, 2024

Van Assche will face Brazilian 18-year-old Fonseca, the lowest ranked player in the eight-man tournament, in Saturday's semifinals.

"It was very, very close. I think I played at a good level. The start was tough but then I managed to play better," Van Assche said.

"I managed my emotions well, especially when my head was exploding. I like to thank the public here because it was busy and they were cheering for me a lot. I am ready for the semifinals."