In the world of professional tennis, players often have unique quirks and rituals. But Learner Tien, the young American sensation, has caught the eye of fans and analysts alike with an unusual serving habit. Unlike most pros who approach the line with a single ball in their pocket as a backup, Tien confidently strides to serve with two balls tucked away.

Tien’s success on the ATP Challenger Tour was particularly noteworthy. He claimed three Challenger titles in 2024, the most of any player in the Next Gen ATP Finals field. His maiden Challenger victory came in July at the Cranbrook Tennis Classic in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He followed this up with triumphs in Las Vegas in September and Fairfield in October, showcasing his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

Tien’s stellar year earned him a spot in the 2024 Next Generation ATP Finals in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he continued to impress:

• Finished second in Blue Group play, defeating Jakub Mensik and Arthur Fils
• Advanced to the final by overcoming Alex Michelsen in the semifinals
• Made history as the first player in the tournament to defeat the Top 3 seeds
• Finished as the runner-up in a closely contested final against Joao Fonseca, with scores of 2-4, 4-3(8), 4-0, 4-2

Tien’s performance at the Next Gen ATP Finals not only showcased his skills against his peers but also hinted at his potential to compete at the highest levels of the sport in the coming years.

When love and success align, they create a perfect match both on and off the court. Australian tennis star Alex de Minaur and British player Katie Boulter have given fans a reason to celebrate as they announced their engagement on social media. The tennis power couple, who have been dating since 2020, shared their joyous news following a remarkable year for both players.

Alex de Minaur’s Stellar Rise

2024 proved to be a breakthrough year for Alex de Minaur. The Australian dynamo reached his career-best ranking of world number 6, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination. De Minaur’s consistency was evident as he reached the quarterfinals at three Grand Slam tournaments, cementing his place among the tennis elite. Known for his lightning-fast court coverage and tenacious playing style, the 25-year-old has become a formidable force in men’s tennis.

Katie Boulter’s Impressive Ascent

Katie Boulter also experienced a significant career boost in 2024. The British player finished the year inside the top 30, marking her best-ever ranking. Boulter’s hard work paid off as she clinched her first WTA 500 title, a testament to her growing prowess on the professional circuit. With her powerful groundstrokes and improving consistency, Boulter has established herself as a rising star in women’s tennis.

Love Across the Net

The engagement of de Minaur and Boulter is not just a personal milestone but also a union of two tennis nations. Their relationship has been a subject of interest in the tennis world, with fans admiring their support for each other’s careers.

The Ashes Connection

While their love story is heartwarming, it adds an interesting dynamic to the long-standing sports rivalry between Australia and England. The Ashes, the iconic cricket series between the two nations, has been a symbol of this rivalry for over a century. De Minaur and Boulter’s engagement brings a touch of irony to this traditional sporting antagonism, showing that love indeed knows no boundaries – not even those drawn by the Ashes. The couple’s engagement might spark playful banter among fans, especially during Ashes seasons. It’s easy to imagine the good-natured teasing that might occur in the stands, with supporters wondering which country the couple will cheer for during the cricket matches.