Learner Tien vs Nicolai Budkov Kjaer Prediction & Picks - Next Gen ATP Finals

Prediction published on 12/19/25, 9:15 AM  by Lou Aguila | Modified on 12/21/25 at 1:29 AM in Tennis Picks

Learner Tien of the United States shoots for a place in the semifinals of the 2025 Next Gen Finals against the undefeated Nicolai Budkov Kjaer of Norward on Friday.

Tien is the favorite at -285 moneyline, but Kjaer has emerged as an intriguing underdog pick at +230 after winning all his matches in Jeddah so far.

Current Form:

Tien arrived in Jeddah as the betting favourite, being the only player in the competition in the top 100. However, it only took one day for Tien to realize that he would have to bring his A-game every single match to win this tournament, following his stunning loss to Rafael Jodar in his first match 4–1, 3–4(3–7), 4–1, 2–4, 3–4(4–7). Tien bounced back with a victory over Martin Landaluce 1–4, 4–1, 4–3(7–4), 4–3(7–2), but again he faced a heavy challenge from another promising Spaniard on Day 2.

Meanwhile, Kjaer will enter Day 3 of the 2025 Next Gen Finals holding an undefeated 2-0 slate. Kjaer dispatched Martin Landaluce in four sets 4–1, 3–4(7–9), 4–2, 4–3(7–4) and Jodar also in four sets, 4–1, 4–2, 1–4, 4–2. Kjaer is 24-10 in indoor matches in 2025 and has won two indoor Challenger titles, including the Open de Vendee last September.