Cruz Hewitt Reaches Wimbledon Boys’ Singles Final
Cruz Hewitt has secured a spot in the Wimbledon boys’ singles final, marking the first time an Australian has reached this stage in the junior tournament in a decade. The 17-year-old advanced to the championship match without losing a single set throughout his campaign at the All England Club.
In his semi-final match on Friday, Hewitt defeated Dutch junior Thijs Boogaard with a 6-4, 6-4 scoreline. This victory followed an earlier triumph over Bulgarian ninth seed Dimitar Kisimov, whom he beat 6-1, 6-2 in the quarter-finals.
Hewitt’s father, Lleyton Hewitt, the 2002 Wimbledon champion, was present to watch his son’s semi-final performance. The younger Hewitt expressed a strong sense of familiarity with the venue, stating he has been around the All England Club since childhood, following his father’s career.
Path to the Final
Hewitt’s journey to the final has been characterised by consistent play. He has served aces across wins, which is the second-highest count in the boys’ draw. Additionally, he has maintained a strong win rate on points when his first serve lands.
His game exhibits a combination of a powerful serve and a strong forehand. While his movement on court is effective, his backhand is also described as solid. Hewitt’s progression this year includes reaching a quarter-final at an ATP Challenger event in Brisbane, securing victories against players ranked in the 200s, and winning a title at a World Tennis event.
The Australian’s development is evident, especially when compared to his performance a year ago when he exited the boys’ tournament in the second round. He has also had opportunities to train with Alex de Minaur, who has been a top 10 player for the past three years, and has warmed up with English wildcard Arthur Fery.
Hewitt acknowledged the support he has received, including from Roger Federer‘s twin daughters, who have regularly attended his matches. He also mentioned that he feels he is playing without the pressure of expectation, focusing on carving out his own career rather than aiming to equal or surpass his father’s achievements.
Anticipation for the Championship
Hewitt’s performance has garnered attention from fans and tennis personalities alike. British tennis legend John Lloyd praised Hewitt’s game management and court awareness, suggesting he appears ready for senior tennis despite his age. Lloyd noted Hewitt’s ability to read the game and make strategic decisions, which he believes sets him apart from some other junior players.
The last Australian to win the boys’ title at Wimbledon was Luke Saville in 2011. Alex de Minaur was the most recent Australian to reach the junior final in 2016. Hewitt’s run has put him in a position to potentially end this drought.
Hewitt’s opponent in the final will be American Jordan Lee, a player who has also demonstrated strong form at Wimbledon. Lee was part of the USA team that won the junior Davis Cup.
Coached by former Australian Davis Cup representative Wayne Arthurs, Hewitt is also supported by other Australian tennis figures, including Jaymon Crabb. The final is scheduled to be played on Sunday AEST.
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Source: foxsports.com.au
