Tiafoe Calls Himself 'Underdog' Ahead of Delray Beach Quarterfinal

The American tennis player is excited to face off against fellow countryman Learner Tien in the ATP 250 tournament.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Frances Tiafoe has shared his thoughts on his upcoming quarterfinal match against Learner Tien at the Delray Beach Open. Tiafoe expressed his respect for the 20-year-old Tien, who recently defeated the defending champion, and said he is excited to be the 'underdog' in the match. Tiafoe emphasized that he approaches every match with the same level of intensity, treating even smaller tournaments as important as majors.

Why it matters

This match-up between the two young American tennis stars is an intriguing one, as Tiafoe looks to continue his comeback year and Tien aims to build on his recent success. The Delray Beach Open is an important ATP 250 event, and the winner of this quarterfinal clash will move one step closer to the title.

The details

Tiafoe and Tien will face off in the quarterfinal of the Delray Beach Open, an ATP 250 tournament. Tiafoe has had a strong start to 2026, reaching the third round of the Australian Open and the round of 16 in Dallas. Tien, the 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals champion, recently defeated the defending Delray Beach champion Miomir Kecmanovic in a tough three-set match to advance to the quarterfinals. Tiafoe has expressed respect for Tien's abilities and is expecting a challenging match, but is embracing the 'underdog' role and is motivated to compete at a high level.

  • Tiafoe and Tien will face off in the quarterfinal of the Delray Beach Open on February 21, 2026.
  • Tien defeated the defending champion Miomir Kecmanovic in the round of 16 on February 20, 2026.

The players

Frances Tiafoe

A 28-year-old American tennis player who is currently ranked World No. 23. Tiafoe is looking to continue his comeback year and treat every match, even smaller tournaments, with the same intensity as a major.

Learner Tien

A 20-year-old American tennis player who is the 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals champion. Tien recently defeated the defending Delray Beach Open champion Miomir Kecmanovic in a tough three-set match to advance to the quarterfinals.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I like him a lot. He seems quiet to y'all, but he's actually a pretty funny kid, and we get along pretty well. I'm happy to come out and play against him. It's incredible the run he's had and how well he's been playing. He pulled out also a tough match today, so it's going to be a good one. He's confident, well-coached, and I'm excited about being the underdog out here.”

— Frances Tiafoe (Christian's Court's Instagram)

“I'm trying to treat every match like it's a major. It all matters. It all counts. I just want to get up and compete, no matter if it's practice, no matter if it's a match. That's more important to me than playing 20,000 people.”

— Frances Tiafoe (Christian's Court's Instagram)

What’s next

The winner of the quarterfinal match between Tiafoe and Tien will advance to the semifinals of the Delray Beach Open.

The takeaway

This match-up between the two young American tennis stars showcases the depth of talent in U.S. men's tennis. Tiafoe's mature approach to every match, treating even smaller tournaments with the same intensity as majors, is an example of his resilience and commitment to his craft.