Cruz Hewitt’s breakthrough week at the ATP 500 DC Open continues. The 17-year-old Australian, son of former world No. 1 and Wimbledon champion Lleyton Hewitt, advanced to the final round of qualifying after a shortened victory over veteran Dusan Lajovic (5-2, Ret.), moving one win away from earning the biggest opportunity of his young career.
Making his debut in ATP-level qualifying, Hewitt received a wildcard into the Washington draw after his impressive run at Wimbledon’s boys’ tournament, where he reached his first Grand Slam junior final.
The Australian teenager came within one victory of matching his father’s historic Wimbledon achievement before falling to American Jordan Lee in a dramatic three-set battle.
His performance at the All England Club, where he defeated four seeded players and reached the final without dropping a set before the championship match, convinced Washington organizers to give him the chance to test himself against professional competition.
Hewitt advances after Lajovic retirement
Hewitt’s first qualifying match in Washington ended earlier than expected, but the Australian (No. 615) was in control before Dusan Lajovic (No. 152) was forced to retire. The 17-year-old world No. 615 was leading 5-2 in the opening set when the Serbian veteran, struggling with a leg issue, stopped the match.
Despite the unusual circumstances, the victory gave Hewitt valuable experience on an ATP 500 stage and kept his dream alive of reaching his first career main draw at tour level.
Watching from the stands was his father Lleyton, who has closely followed his son’s development while Cruz attempts to build his own path in professional tennis. Now, the challenge becomes significantly tougher.
Gotta love this 😃
— Mubadala DC Open (@mubadaladcopen) July 25, 2026
Under the watchful eye of his legendary father, Cruz Hewitt advances to the final round of qualifying in DC!#MubadalaDCOpen pic.twitter.com/V48jVwj9iv
Hewitt faces first seed Svajda for main draw spot
Standing between Hewitt and a place in the Washington main draw is Zachary Svajda, the No. 1 seed in qualifying and current world No. 73. The American has already established himself as one of the promising young players on the ATP Tour and will represent a major test for Hewitt, who is still searching for his first victory over a fully ranked tour-level opponent.
A win would mark a significant milestone for the Australian teenager, who has previously fallen short in qualifying attempts at events including the Australian Open and Brisbane International.
Watching closely from the stands throughout his son’s Washington debut was Lleyton Hewitt, who followed Cruz’s match from courtside as the teenager took his first steps at ATP level. The former world No. 1 was also recognized by fans after the match, with supporters approaching him for photos as they celebrated the presence of one of Australian tennis’ biggest legends at the tournament.
Wimbledon boys’ finalist Cruz Hewitt is into R2 of D.C. qualies after a retirement win vs Lajovic while up 5-2. The 17-y.o. is seeking his first tour-level main draw.
— Christian's Court (@christianscourt) July 25, 2026
His father & Hall-of-Famer Lleyton was gracious enough to take pics with many fans after the match. pic.twitter.com/hZK5wGG3BH
Hewitt’s rise has attracted attention because of both his surname and his recent results. Twenty-four years after Lleyton Hewitt lifted the Wimbledon trophy, Cruz came close to creating his own memorable moment at the same tournament.
Now, in Washington, he has another opportunity to take a major step toward following his father’s footsteps — this time on the ATP Tour.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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