Cruz Hewitt, the son of former professional tennis player Lleyton Hewitt and actress Bec Hewitt, has been handed a qualifying wildcard at the Washington Open.
It means the 17-year-old will get the chance to qualify for a professional Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) tournament main draw for the first time outside Australia.
Hewitt won the hearts of Australians with his recent run to the Wimbledon Boys Final, before losing to Jordan Lee in three sets.
‘The future is here,’ the Washington Open said in an announcement on X, which included a photo of Hewitt and Lee, who also received a wildcard.
Several Australians will feature at the Washington tournament, with Alex de Minaur and Nick Kyrgios set to take centre court.
The event’s qualifying stage begins on Saturday, before the main singles draw starts next week.
Cruz Hewitt (pictured) has been awarded a qualifying wildcard at the Washington Open
Hewitt (pictured) is regarded as one of tennis’ brightest prospects
The 17-year-old (pictured with his parents Lleyton and Bec) recently made a run to the Wimbledon Boys Final
Hewitt has never previously received a wildcard above the ATP Challenger or ITF Circuit level outside Australia.
The upcoming event offers the teenager a chance to announce himself on the ATP circuit.
Fans have taken to social media to issue their congratulations to both junior stars.
‘Excited for them!’ one user said, while another added, ‘This is awesome.’
A third person said: ‘Wonderful initiative, to promote opportunities for these exceptional juniors. Well done!’
The 17-year-old’s father Lleyton competed at the tournament on several occasions and won the event in 2004.
His final appearance in the US capital came in 2015, ending with a three-set loss to Spain’s Feliciano Lopez in the second round.
