Cameron Norrie’s first ATP final of 2025 ended in defeat as he was beaten in a tie-break decider by Learner Tien.
Norrie has enjoyed an incredibly successful second half of the season, which has seen him climb back into the top 30 of the rankings.
The Brit’s form continued in Metz, where he defeated the likes of Valentin Royer and Lorenzo Sonego to reach the final.
The final did not go to plan for Norrie, but he produced a classy message for the crowd following the match.
Cameron Norrie reduced to tears after the Metz final
Norrie sent a message to Tien after the match as he praised the 19-year-old for winning his very first ATP title.
The British No. 2 said: “Learner, congrats, man. It was a battle today. You’re so tough and I’m so proud that you can win today. You’ve had an amazing first year on the tour.
“We started the year playing against each other, and we finished it. I have a lot of respect for you. I think you’re going to be an amazing player. I love your game.
“This is just the beginning for you, so keep going. Compared to all the other guys, you’re so, so tough. Keep pushing, and a big congrats on the title. I’m upset I didn’t get it, but you deserved it in the end.”
The star then sent an emotional tribute to his grandma, which reduced the star to tears on-court. “My grandma’s been really sick and I’ve not been able to be there this week.
“I just tried to enjoy my tennis for her and I hope she can keep pushing through. I tried to enjoy my tennis for you, nanna, and a big hello.”
Norrie climbs to a ranking of World No. 27, while Tien reaches a career high of World No. 28 after the final.
Learner Tien sends a message to Cameron Norrie after their Metz final
Tien and Norrie have built up a competitive rivalry across 2025, with the pair meeting four times throughout the season.
Norrie has won just once after the Metz final, with Tien managing wins across three hardcourt matches. The young American sent Norrie a message after winning his title.
“First off, I want to congratulate Cam on a great second half of the year. I think we practiced sometime over the summer and he was in qualifiers for a 250, so that’s crazy impressive.
“It’s always such a battle against you. I have so much respect for you as a person, a competitor, and a player. All the best for next year!”
Both Tien and Norrie will end the year inside the top 30, meaning they are guaranteed entry into every ATP 500 tournament in 2026.
