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Learner Tien Beats Ben Shelton at Indian Wells to Near Top 20

The 20-year-old’s three-set win pushes him toward a first top-20 ranking at the Masters event.

Mar 6, 2026; Indian Wells, CA, USA;  Learner Tien (USA) hits a shot in his round 2 match against Adam Walton (AUS) during the BNP Paribas Open at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images/ File Photo

Overview

  • Learner Tien defeated Ben Shelton 7-6 (3), 4-6, 6-3 to reach the last 16 at Indian Wells.
  • This was Tien’s second career win over Shelton, reinforcing his strong start to the season.
  • Tien said Shelton was not feeling 100% this week, acknowledging illness as a factor in the contest.
  • Recent results include an Australian Open quarter-final and a Delray Beach semi-final, building clear momentum.
  • Taylor Fritz is set to remain the U.S. No. 1 following Shelton’s defeat, as Tien’s rise reshapes the conversation.