Learner Tien equals Jimmy Connors’ record after beating Alexander Zverev in Acapulco

Posted by author February 27, 2025 Tennis

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Learner Tien has continued his stunning start to the 2025 season by clinching a stunning win over Alexander Zverev in Acapulco.

Tien rose to 80th in the world rankings after the Australian Open, where the American reached the fourth round.

Teenage star Tien emerged through qualifying before beating 2024 finalist and world number five Daniil Medvedev, with Lorenzo Sonego eventually ending his dream run.

Tien has been tipped to have a huge following, with the 19-year-old now securing another huge upset with his win over world number two Zverev.

The American teenager defeated Mexican Open top seed Zverev 6-3, 6-4 in the round of 16, again having made it through qualifying.

Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images

Learner Tien emulates Jimmy Connors with win over Alexander Zverev

Tien now meets eighth seed Tomas Machac in Acapulco, with the former certain to be full of confidence after his latest win.

As per OptaAce, the success means he is now the youngest player to win his first two matches against ATP top five opponents, aged 19 years and 87 days.

READ MORE: Learner Tien explains what really surprised him about the crowd in his first match since the Australian Open

That dates back to when the ATP rankings were first published in 1973, with Tien becoming the second American to achieve the feat after Jimmy Connors.

Learner Tien shines as Alexander Zverev blows big opportunity in Acapulco

Following in the footsteps of legendary figure Connors is no mean feat, with the icon having won eight Grand Slam titles during his stunning career.

But Tien will not be considering such success at this stage of his career, while the youngster will be keen to forge his own path in tennis.

READ MORE: Learner Tien says what his relationship with Alex Michelsen is currently like after their incredible runs at the Australian Open

Medvedev was the fifth seed in Melbourne when he fell victim to the young star, who is quickly becoming one of the most feared players on the ATP Tour for those with more experience.

Tien has dropped slightly in the ATP rankings to 83rd since his Australian Open heroics, but the teen is certain to soar back up the standings once more after Acapulco.

Zverev meanwhile will be hugely disappointed with his efforts, having blown another chance to really put pressure on world number one Jannik Sinner.