Cruz Hewitt: Son of former Wimbledon champion Leighton wins on senior debut

Cruz Hewitt – the 17-year-old son of former world number one Lleyton Hewitt – earned his first ATP win on his main singles draw debut.

The Australian defeated fellow qualifier Marcos Giron of the United States 6-3 6-4 in 74 minutes.

His first win came at the Washington Open – a tournament his father won in 2004.

It was one of his father’s 30 career titles, including the 2002 Wimbledon men’s singles crown.

“It’s a very special moment,” Hewitt said. “To see my dad play this tournament and win on my first tour, it feels really great.”

Hewitt could next play fellow Australian Alex de Minaur, the top seed and defending Washington champion.

De Minaur will face Greek Stefanos Tsitsipas on Wednesday.

Hewitt Jr. copied a famous celebration from his father after a victory – a right-arm bicep curl.

“He always did it and I always saw it when I was a kid,” Hewitt said. “It’s nice to be able to do it now because obviously my dad is a huge part of where I am today.”

The teenager said he was inspired by seeing his father’s name on the ring of champions in Washington DC during the qualifiers.

“It’s very surreal,” he said. “It’s also kind of inspiring to see.

“I’m pretty comfortable being in the tournament. It’s pretty exciting because I’ve dreamed of playing in this tournament and I’ve seen behind the scenes and to be in the gym and in the locker room with these guys, it’s pretty cool.”