This paper proposes an adaptive synchronization technique for grid-tied inverter based on a nonlinear Hopf oscillator controller, which is inspired by the phenomenon of dynamics of adaptive oscillator synchronization characteristics under the external perturbation, and without requiring the use of dedicated phase-locked loop (PLL) or frequency-locked loop (FLL). Limit-cycle Hopf oscillator exhibits the better robustness and synchronization performance compared with Van der Pol oscillator, which is applied for generating current references in time-domain. Therefore, an adaptive learning rule for the Hopf oscillator is obtained to make inverter follow the frequency and phase of utility grid. Afterwards, the PR controller is employed to eliminate current error in αβ frame. Finally, experimental results were implemented through comparing with double loops current controller, presenting the salient performances of the proposed method in front of frequency variations, voltage sags/swells, and grid voltage harmonics.