Sonego ends Tien's dream run to reach Australian Open quarter-finals

Lorenzo Sonego, aged 29, concluded the impressive journey of another young competitor at the Australian Open by defeating qualifier Learner Tien, 19, with a scoreline of 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-1, thereby advancing to the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time on Monday.

Sonego had previously eliminated 18-year-old Brazilian Joao Fonseca in the second round, and his experience proved invaluable once more as he secured the victory over American Tien on John Cain Arena.

"I am at a loss for words. This is simply unbelievable; I am overwhelmed with emotion," Sonego expressed. "Today was incredibly challenging, and I feel sad that he encountered an issue. This is not the ideal way to win, but I am thrilled to have reached the quarter-finals."

"The atmosphere was extraordinary; it was truly special to be here. I aim to perform at my best, and I have played well this week. I want to savor every moment."

Tien, who was attempting to become the youngest man to reach the quarter-finals since 17-year-old Goran Ivanisevic in 1989, experienced discomfort in his right thigh after a lackluster double fault during his initial service game. Sonego capitalized on this opportunity, securing an early break to take control of the first set.

In the subsequent set, Sonego, who also pursues a career as a singer-songwriter with a significant following on Spotify, maintained his momentum and appeared on track for a straightforward victory after establishing a 5-2 lead with another break before holding serve in the eighth game.

However, Tien responded by breaking Sonego in the third set, which he ultimately won after Sonego sent a forehand long.

The Italian quickly regained his composure, delivering a series of powerful forehand winners to establish a 3-0 lead in the fourth set before clinching the match and securing a place in the quarter-finals against either Gael Monfils or Ben Shelton.

SportsLigue