Cruz Hewitt's bid to become the first Australian junior Wimbledon champion in 15 years ended in heartbreak on Sunday, as the 17-year-old lost a thrilling boys' final to American qualifier Jordan Lee, 4-6, 6-4, 7-5. The match, lasting two hours and three minutes, is likely Hewitt's last as a junior, as he now sets his sights on the senior professional tour.
Hewitt's Final Push Falls Short
Hewitt, the son of 2002 Wimbledon champion Lleyton Hewitt, led 4-2 in the deciding set before Lee, aged 16 and the youngest boy in the tournament, mounted a comeback. Serving to stay in the match at 5-6, Hewitt double-faulted to hand Lee the break and the victory. Despite the loss, Hewitt showed maturity in handling the disappointment. 'He's pretty proud,' Hewitt said of his father, who watched from the players' box alongside mother Bec and coach Wayne Arthurs. 'Obviously, it's disappointing to lose the final, but I think it's a really good week.'
Transition to Senior Ranks
Hewitt confirmed that the final likely marked his junior farewell. 'Yeah, that would definitely be one of my big goals long-term,' he said when asked about returning to Wimbledon for the men's event. 'I'd have to get my ranking up a little bit, but with a whole lot of hard work, it's possible.' Currently ranked world No. 606, Hewitt hopes for a wildcard into the Australian Open. 'That would be the dream,' he said. 'That's a big goal of mine – and I feel like I can show my level.'
Parallels with De Minaur
Hewitt's path mirrors that of fellow Australian Alex de Minaur, who lost the 2016 Wimbledon boys' final but has since risen to world No. 6. De Minaur practiced with Hewitt during the tournament, along with British semi-finalist Arthur Fery. Hewitt acknowledged the experience: 'It's been a very special week for me. I grew up around this tournament, seeing my dad play here and it's a privilege playing on any court here.'
Opponent's Rising Star
Lee, who only turned 16 in May, proved a formidable opponent. The qualifier's aggressive play and composure under pressure suggest a bright future. Hewitt's attacking game impressed throughout the week, but Lee's resilience ultimately prevailed. 'I feel like people this week maybe have seen how well I can play,' Hewitt said. 'It's been a really good atmosphere all week.'
