Lorenzo Sonego is living his Grand Slam dream in Melbourne. The 29-year-old Italian ended the fairytale run of 19-year-old qualifier Learner Tien with a 6-3, 6-2, 3-6, 6-1 victory, advancing to the quarterfinals of a Grand Slam for the first time in his career.
Experience triumphs over youth
Facing his second teenage opponent of the tournament, Sonego’s experience proved decisive once again. After dispatching Brazilian 18-year-old Joao Fonseca in the second round, the unseeded Italian brought the same poise to his battle with Tien on John Cain Arena.
“I don’t know what to say. It’s just unbelievable, I’m crazy emotional,” Sonego said in his post-match interview. “Today was so tough, I’m so sad that he had a problem. It’s not the right way to win, but I’m so happy to reach the quarterfinals.”
A tough fight on both sides
The match started ominously for Tien, who appeared to struggle with a thigh issue early on. A double fault in his opening service game handed Sonego an easy break, setting the tone for the first set. Sonego’s precision and control saw him breeze through the second set as well, going up 5-2 before closing it out 6-2.
But Tien, aiming to become the youngest man to reach a Grand Slam quarterfinal since Goran Ivanisevic in 1989, refused to go quietly. The 19-year-old American capitalized on Sonego’s errors in the third set, breaking serve and sealing the set when Sonego misfired on a forehand.
Sonego’s strong finish
Despite Tien’s third-set comeback, Sonego quickly regained control in the fourth. With blistering forehand winners and aggressive net play, the Italian stormed to a 3-0 lead. Tien, visibly hampered by his injury, couldn’t mount another comeback as Sonego closed out the match with authority.
The victory not only marks Sonego’s first Grand Slam quarterfinal but also cements his status as a rising star in the sport. Known off the court as a singer-songwriter with a Spotify presence, Sonego’s ability to balance creativity and discipline has translated seamlessly to his game.
What’s next for Sonego?
Sonego will now face the winner of the match between Gael Monfils and Ben Shelton. Regardless of the opponent, the Italian will carry newfound confidence and a wave of fan support into his quarterfinal debut.
“I want to enjoy every moment,” Sonego said. “The atmosphere was amazing, and I just want to do my best.”
For Learner Tien, this Australian Open will be remembered as a breakthrough moment despite the loss. His poise and potential suggest that the teenager’s best days are still ahead.