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Tien Favored at Next Gen Finals in Jeddah
17 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Learner Tien enters as world No. 28, the top seed.
- Injuries sideline top contenders Menšík and Fonseca.
- Unique rules include sets to four games and no-lets.
The Next Gen ATP Finals commence Wednesday in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with American Learner Tien, ranked world No. 28, as the strong favorite. This tournament showcases the best male tennis players aged 20 and under. Several strong contenders, including Jakub Menšík and João Fonseca, have withdrawn due to injuries, altering the expected field.
The event features a unique format, with matches played in best-of-five sets, but sets are won by the first player to reach four games. Tiebreaks occur at 3-3, and a 'no-lets' rule, similar to college tennis, is in effect. Additionally, a shot clock is implemented, with reduced time between points in shorter rallies.
Prize money is substantial, with participating players receiving $154,000. Further incentives include $37,500 for each round-robin win, escalating amounts for semifinal and final victories, and a potential $539,750 for an undefeated champion.
