Lleyton Hewitt’s son Cruz makes Australian Open junior debut in front of large crowd: ‘Just a really special moment’

Cruz Hewitt made his Australian Open debut in the junior boys championship and got a taste of what dad Lleyton experienced during his career as crowds turned out to watch him play.

The 15-year-old’s mother and father were there to watch him play – and Lleyton even stepped onto the field to help with his son’s warm-up.

Hewitt took on young Alexander Razeghi on Court 3, the very same court where Lleyton played his first match on his debut in 1997.

“Honestly just incredibly proud,” Lleyton told Nine before the match.

“He wanted me to go outside and warm him up. They asked me late last night if I wanted to warm it up this morning on Show Court 3. Just a very special moment.

Cruz’s proud parents were in attendance and Lleyton said he was very proud

“My first ever main draw match at the Australian Open also took place on Show Court 3, so it just brought back some great memories playing here.”

Hewitt got off to a good start against his 17-year-old opponent, but that wasn’t enough on the day as the American won 6-2, 6-3.

“It’s all over, too much experience here today for wildcard Cruz Hewitt,” said one commentator.

‘Razeghi seemed emotionally in control, physically bigger and with many more games under his belt.

“Unforced errors were a big problem for Hewitt, but it’s good to see Cruz Hewitt getting a chance at the Australian Open.”

Hewitt, who has won three junior titles, received great support from the crowd and will remember the day for a long time.

“He knows the pitfalls, but he worked extremely hard to get this opportunity,” Lleyton said of Cruz.

Hewitt fell short against his more powerful and older opponent, but received major support

‘He’s playing well. He’s still very young – this is a learning experience and that’s what the junior event is all about.

“He’s been lucky enough to get a wildcard and hopefully he goes out there and has a lot of fun.”