Cruz Hewitt Claims First ATP Tour Victory at Washington Open

KUALA LUMPUR, JULY 2026 — Australian tennis prospect Cruz Hewitt reached a major career milestone by recording his first ATP Tour victory at the Washington Open.

The 17-year-old defeated American player Marcos Giron 6-3, 6-4 in the opening round, delivering a confident performance in his first appearance in the main draw of a tour-level tournament.

Hewitt, who entered the ATP 500 event through qualifying, maintained control throughout the contest and handled the pressure of the occasion with maturity beyond his years.

The victory marked another important moment in a remarkable summer for the young Australian, who recently finished runner-up in the Wimbledon boys’ singles final. His appearance at Wimbledon came nearly 25 years after his father, former world No. 1 Lleyton Hewitt, captured the men’s singles title at the All England Club.

Cruz arrived in Washington ranked No. 612 in the world but showed few signs of being intimidated by the experienced Giron.

The result was particularly meaningful because Lleyton Hewitt won the Washington tournament in 2004. Cruz said competing at the same event brought back memories of watching his father during the later stages of his career.

By winning his opening match, Hewitt became the youngest player to record a victory at the Washington event since Japan’s Kei Nishikori achieved the feat in 2007.

The Australian teenager also became the fourth male player born in 2008 or later to earn an ATP Tour-level win, joining Diego Dedura, Thijs Boogaard and Moise Kouame.

Hewitt credited his father’s advice for helping him remain calm during his tour-level debut. He was encouraged to enjoy the experience, focus on one point at a time and embrace the atmosphere created by the crowd.

Although he acknowledged that carrying the Hewitt name brings additional attention and expectations, Cruz said he is attempting to use the pressure in a positive way.

His victory strengthens his reputation as one of Australia’s most promising young tennis players and adds momentum to a season already highlighted by his deep run at Wimbledon.

Hewitt is set to face either former world No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas or fellow Australian Alex de Minaur in the next round.

A potential meeting with De Minaur would carry special significance for the teenager. Hewitt described the Australian star as being like an older brother, explaining that the two families have shared a close relationship for many years.

Regardless of his next opponent, the Washington victory represents a significant step in Hewitt’s transition from junior competition to the professional circuit.

With his first ATP Tour win now secured, attention will turn to whether the teenager can continue his run and establish himself among the next generation of Australian tennis stars.