ATP Tour
Journey to Jeddah: The calm, assured rise of Learner Tien & Rei Sakamoto’s growth
Watch episode one of many new Journey to Jeddah sequence, which options Tien and Sakamoto
November 30, 2025
“I simply go on the market and attempt to take pleasure in it as a lot as I can.”
Relaxed, unhurried and backed by a quiet, unwavering self-belief, Learner Tien radiates ease as he displays on a breakthrough season that has turned heads throughout the ATP Tour.
Nonetheless simply 19, the rising American surged into the title match on the 2024 Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF and now returns to the 20-and-under showdown in 2025 as one of many gamers to observe. His 12 months featured a sequence of firsts and milestones, together with a maiden ATP 250 crown in Metz, marking him as one of many sport’s fastest-climbing skills.
Within the opening episode of the brand new Journey to Jeddah sequence, Tien rewinds to his earliest recollections on courtroom, shares what he’s realized from his debut 12 months on Tour and opens up about competitiveness, stress and why friendships with friends matter greater than most individuals realise.
“I believe all of the younger guys do a terrific job at pushing one another. It helps seeing acquainted faces in new locations,” Tien says. “So many different guys live virtually the identical life as you… It’s reassuring to know you share a lot in widespread with the folks round you.”
Additionally moving into the highlight in Episode 1 is Japan’s Rei Sakamoto. The 19-year-old, recognized for his self-proclaimed quirky character and booming serve, is navigating the pivotal transition from juniors to the ATP Tour and ATP Challenger Tour. Coach Federico Ricci is inspired by Sakamoto’s growth, however highlights the significance of sharpening focus as the subsequent stage of his profession begins to unfold.
That includes knowledgeable perception from Lee Goodall and Sweet Reid-Harrop, episode one units the scene for a compelling sequence forward, charting the journeys of the sport’s most enjoyable younger names as they race towards Jeddah. Watch the primary episode now.
The 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF will happen from 17–21 December.
