The China Open faces another tough call, and another setback for Daniil Medvedev. The Russian has been chasing his next title, but luck has stayed out of reach. Back-to-back early exits, including at the Grand Slams, stirred worry among fans. The Asian swing brought some hope, with Medvedev making his first semifinal since Halle in June. But this chance slipped by too.

On Tuesday, Medvedev’s clash at the China Open turned into more drama than anyone expected. He faced 19-year-old rising star Learner Tien and started strong, taking the first set. The teenager refused to fold, and ultimately, he came out winning as Daniil pulled out due to injury and cramps.

The Russian pushed hard, dragged the match into a decider, and looked ready to fight for a spot in the final against Jannik Sinner. The final set unraveled fast. Daniil Medvedev’s body failed him, and by the time he quit, Tien was leading 5-7, 7-5, 4-0. Sending him to the final to battle the No.1 seed.

The teenager walked away with a walkover win and a slice of history. At just 19, he became the second youngest player to reach the China Open final, a feat only Rafael Nadal had achieved earlier. But for Medvedev? The day closed in frustration and another setback.