After defeating Daniil Medvedev in a thrilling five-set match at the Australian Open, Learner Tien celebrated in a unique way—by enjoying a slice of pepperoni pizza.
The 19-year-old qualifier triumphed over the three-time Australian Open runner-up in a match that lasted 4 hours and 49 minutes, winning 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-7 (8/10), 1-6, 7-6 (10/7). As he reflected on the victory in his post-match press conference, Tien couldn’t resist indulging in a pizza.
“It was either going to be celebratory or a binge eat… it feels better, it’s more celebratory, for sure,” Tien said, smiling as he ate.
Tien’s victory was significant. As the youngest American to reach the men’s third round since Pete Sampras in 1990, Tien, ranked 121st in the world, had every reason to celebrate.
Before the match, Tien remained calm and focused. “I was just trying to treat it like any other match I ever played,” he explained. “Not putting too much importance on just this match today.”
Although he came close to winning in straight sets, Tien missed a match point in the third set. However, he maintained his composure. “It wasn’t super difficult,” he said. “I didn’t even touch a ball on that match point. It wasn’t like I had a huge opportunity.”
Despite the disappointment, Tien quickly regained focus and finished strong. “To lose in a long breaker after saving a set point, then having my own match point, was a little tough. Honestly, I was just telling myself, if I could start two sets to one, I’d be thrilled.”
With the win, Tien advanced to the third round, where he will face France’s Corentin Moutet, who defeated Australia’s Alexei Popyrin. If Tien wins again, he may just celebrate with more pizza—though he joked he might skip the pepperoni next time.
“Not too many pepperonis,” Tien said. “More just cheese.”
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