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Young Tien Shocks Fokina, Reaches BNP Paribas Quarters

3/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Learner Tien, the 25th seed, advanced to the BNP Paribas Open quarterfinals by defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 4-6, 6-1, 7-6(4).
At 20 years old, he became the youngest American to reach this stage since Michael Chang in 1992.
Tien saved two match points and four of five break points, fighting through a tense tie-break to win.
He will face Jannik Sinner or Joao Fonseca in the next round.

History

Historical Context

Michael Chang made history in 1989 by becoming the youngest male player to win a Grand Slam title at the French Open at just 17 years old. His victory over Stefan Edberg inspired a new generation of American tennis players. Recently, Alex Tien reached the BNP Paribas Open quarterfinals, marking the first time since Chang that an American this young has achieved such a milestone.

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Story summary

Learner Tien, the 25th seed, advanced to the BNP Paribas Open quarterfinals by defeating Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 4-6, 6-1, 7-6(4).
At 20 years old, he became the youngest American to reach this stage since Michael Chang in 1992.
Tien saved two match points and four of five break points, fighting through a tense tie-break to win.
He will face Jannik Sinner or Joao Fonseca in the next round.

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