Seventeen-year-old Cruz Hewitt has made a memorable start to his ATP career, earning his first tour-level victory on his main draw debut at the Washington Open.
The Australian teenager, son of former world No. 1 Lleyton Hewitt, defeated American qualifier Marcos Giron 6-3, 6-4 in 74 minutes to secure his maiden ATP win.
The victory came at a special venue for the Hewitt family, as the Washington Open was where his father lifted the title in 2004. Lleyton Hewitt went on to win 30 ATP titles during his career, including the 2002 Wimbledon men's singles crown.
"It's a pretty special moment," Cruz said. "Seeing my dad play this tournament and now getting my first tour win here feels really cool."
Following the victory, Hewitt celebrated in familiar fashion by copying his father's famous bicep curl celebration, a gesture Lleyton often performed after big wins.
"He just always did it, and when I was little I've always seen it," Hewitt said. "It's cool to be able to do that now because my dad has been a huge part of where I am today."
The teenager also revealed that seeing his father's name displayed on the Washington champions' ring during qualifying gave him extra motivation.
"It's very surreal and inspirational to look up at it," he said.
Hewitt added that he feels comfortable competing at ATP events after growing up around the sport and watching his father compete at the highest level.
"I've dreamed of playing at these tournaments, and being in the gym and locker room with these guys is pretty cool," he said.
The young Australian could face another major challenge next, with a potential second-round clash against top seed and defending champion Alex de Minaur, who was scheduled to play Stefanos Tsitsipas in his opening match.
A victory over Giron marks the beginning of what could be a promising career for Cruz Hewitt, who is now following in the footsteps of one of Australia's greatest tennis players.
