British number two Cameron Norrie experienced a devastating collapse in the Moselle Open final, surrendering a commanding lead to American teenager Learner Tien and missing a golden opportunity to claim his sixth ATP Tour title.
A Crushing Defeat in Metz
In a dramatic and topsy-turvy final on Saturday, 8th November 2025, Norrie was beaten 6-3, 3-6, 7-6 (6) by the 19-year-old Tien. This marks the second consecutive year Norrie has fallen at the final hurdle in Metz, having lost to Benjamin Bonzi in the 2024 edition. The 30-year-old Brit was highly motivated to secure his first title in nearly three years but was left heartbroken as victory slipped from his grasp in a nail-biting tie-break.
How The Final Unfolded
The match was a rollercoaster from the start. Tien, showing composure beyond his years, seized the first set. Norrie, demonstrating the resilience he has shown throughout the tournament where he won three matches in a row from a set down, fought back confidently to level the contest by taking the second set.
The deciding set saw momentum swing wildly. Tien broke early to lead 4-1 and threatened to run away with the match, even earning two break points to extend his lead further. Norrie dug deep, saving both break points and, as the young American began to feel the pressure of the occasion, the Brit stormed back to win three consecutive games.
The drama peaked in the championship tie-break. Norrie established what seemed like an unassailable 5-1 lead, putting him on the cusp of the title. However, a crucial missed opportunity to extend his lead to 6-1 proved fatal, swinging the momentum irrevocably back in Tien's favour. Although Norrie bravely saved one match point, he ultimately netted a shot on Tien's second opportunity, handing the victory to the teenager.
Consequences of the Result
Instead of Norrie ending his title drought, it was Learner Tien who celebrated a maiden ATP Tour crown in a stunning breakthrough performance. This significant victory also carries a major ranking reward for Tien, as he will now join Norrie as a seeded player at the upcoming Australian Open.
For Norrie, the defeat is a bitter pill to swallow, having come so close to lifting the trophy in a final where he held multiple advantages, only to see them disappear in the closing moments.
