Following in Footsteps: Cruz Hewitt Aims for Australian Open Glory
The australian Open is set to witness a familiar name gracing its courts: Cruz Hewitt, son of tennis legend Lleyton Hewitt. Cruz, a rising star in the tennis world, has been granted a wildcard entry into the qualifying rounds, commencing on January 6th. This presents a remarkable possibility for the 16-year-old to emulate his father’s historic journey.
Cruz will be 16 years and 32 days old when the first Grand Slam of 2025 kicks off. Shoudl he successfully navigate the qualifying rounds, he would become the youngest player to compete in the Australian Open main draw since 1997. This feat would echo his father’s achievement 28 years prior, when a 15-year-old Lleyton Hewitt secured his place in the main draw through qualifying.Lleyton’s debut marked the beginning of an illustrious career.He ascended to the pinnacle of the sport, holding the world number one ranking for an impressive 80 weeks. His trophy cabinet boasts two Grand Slam titles and 30 tour victories, solidifying his legacy as one of Australia’s greatest tennis players.
The prospect of seeing Lleyton and Cruz share the court in a doubles match is an exciting one. The elder hewitt, now 43, recently demonstrated his enduring passion for the sport by making a brief comeback to represent Australia in the Davis Cup.
While Cruz’s journey is just beginning, his father’s path serves as a powerful reminder that even the most prodigious talents must earn their place. Lleyton’s own first foray into the Australian Open main draw in 1997 ended in a three-set defeat to Sergi Bruguera, highlighting the competitive nature of professional tennis.
following in Footsteps: An Interview with Pat Cash on Cruz Hewitt’s Australian Open Bid
Welcome back, tennis fans, to another episode of Courtside Chats! today, we’re joined by a true Aussie legend, the 1987 Wimbledon Champion, Pat Cash. Pat, thanks for joining us.
Pat Cash: G’day, mate! Always happy to chat tennis.
Moderator: We’re buzzing with anticipation about Cruz Hewitt,son of your former Davis cup teammate Lleyton,making a run at the Australian Open qualifying rounds. What are your thoughts on Cruz’s chances?
Pat Cash: Cruz is a chip off the old block, that’s for sure. He’s got that same fiery competitiveness and love for the game that Lleyton had. But qualifying for a Grand Slam at 16 is a tall order. it’s a different beast out there, especially at the aussie Open. It’s hot, the pressure is immense, and the competition is fierce.
Moderator: Absolutely, Pat. And Cruz’s journey echoes Lleyton’s own debut in 1997. If he makes it to the main draw, he’d be the youngest player since than. Do you see any parallels between their playing styles or personalities?
Pat Cash: There are definitely similarities. Both are aggressive baseliners with big forehands and a knack for taking the ball early. But Cruz seems to have a little more finesse around the net than Lleyton did at that age.And while Lleyton was always fiercely intense, Cruz seems a bit more laid-back on court, which can be an advantage in high-pressure situations.
Moderator: Interesting point. now,Lleyton has recently returned to the Davis Cup,albeit in a coaching role. Do you think we might see this dynamic duo teaming up for some doubles action in the future?
Pat Cash: I wouldn’t be surprised! The crowd would go wild for that. Both Lleyton and Cruz have fantastic doubles instincts, and they could definitely complement each other well. But I think Lleyton is smart enough to let Cruz forge his own path.
Moderator: Speaking of forging his own path,what advice would you give Cruz as he embarks on this journey?
Pat Cash: Embrace the experience,mate. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. just go out there, play your game, and enjoy the moment. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Moderator: Wise words,Pat. now, we wont to hear from our readers! What are your thoughts on Cruz Hewitt’s potential? Do you think he can make it to the main draw? Let us know in the comments below!
