Next Gen ATP Finals: Tien Triumphs in 'Besties Showdown' Against Michelsen to Secure Final Spot
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Jeddah (Saudi Arabia), Dec 22 (NationPress) American Learner Tien showcased an exceptional performance to triumph over his compatriot and friend Alex Michelsen in an exhilarating five-set match, securing his position as the third American to reach the final of the Next Gen ATP Finals on Saturday. Tien, who recorded a 2-1 performance in Blue Group play, is set to face the winner of the second semifinal featuring Brazilian Joao Fonseca and Frenchman Luca Van Assche in the final on Sunday.
This victory over Michelsen was pivotal for Tien's progression.
Over the past decade, Michelsen and Tien have forged a solid friendship, training together in California and engaging in Fortnite competitions and table tennis matches. However, their close off-court bond took a back seat in Saudi Arabia, where they delivered an entertaining showdown on Saturday. Their semifinal encounter was witnessed by a vibrant crowd, including former World No. 1 Rafael Nadal, who was present at King Abdullah Sports City. The two Americans exhibited closely matched skills in the first three sets, marking their inaugural ATP head-to-head contest.
During the match, Michelsen unleashed powerful serves, at times overwhelming Tien physically. Nevertheless, the 19-year-old adeptly countered, skillfully maneuvering Michelsen with stunning angles and aggressive groundstrokes that had him darting from corner to corner.
However, from the onset of the fourth set, Tien took control. The American claimed seven consecutive games, focusing on baseline exchanges and harnessing momentum in the fifth set to secure his advance after one hour and 36 minutes.
"I can't articulate my feelings right now," Tien expressed after his victory, having struck 21 winners. "I'm incredibly pleased with the win, but I dislike that it was against him; that's just how it goes. I started smiling when I saw him on the other side of the net, yet I'm thrilled to have made it through and believe I played exceptionally well."
