Cruz Hewitt makes his Australian Open debut
Twenty-seven years after a young Lleyton Hewitt made his entrance into the tennis world, another young Hewitt has made their Australian Open debut.
Cruz, the 15-year-old son of Lleyton and Bec, made his big debut in the junior boys’ singles on Sunday, taking on American teen Alexander Razeghi.
Cruz Hewitt is the youngest player in the draw and came out as a wildcard in the tournament, with Razeghi ultimately proving more experienced, as Cruz lost 6-2 6-3 in 1 hour and 26 minutes.
Despite not claiming the match, the similarities between the young tennis star and his famous father were uncanny, with Cruz sporting the backwards cap and almost identical two-handed backhand.
Before taking to the court for the anticipated game, the youngster got in one last masterclass from his dad, a former world No. 1 and two-time grand slam champion, with a quick father-son training session.
Undoubtedly filled with nerves for his son, Lleyton spoke to Nine News before the match, saying he was, “Just unbelievably proud, to be honest.”
“They asked me late last night if I would go out and warm him up this morning on Show Court 3. Just a really special moment.”
“My first ever main draw match at the Australian Open was actually out on Show Court 3 as well.”
“Just some great memories coming back of me playing here. He’s been around the traps, but he’s worked extremely hard to get this opportunity. He is playing well.”
The crowd rallied behind the 15-year-old player during his match, while proud parents Lleyton and Bec watched on eagerly from the stands.
While he fell short of claiming victory against his 17-year-old opponent, Cruz got plenty of encouragement from the crowd as he made the first small steps on his tennis journey.
“He’s still very young. This is all a learning experience,” Lleyton said.
“That’s what the junior event is all about. You want to get the opportunity to play here as seniors one day.”
“He’s been fortunate enough to get a wildcard and hopefully goes out, has a lot of fun.”
Image credits: Getty Images