Cruz Hewitt, the 17-year-old Australian tennis prospect, fell agonisingly short in the Wimbledon boys' singles final on Sunday, losing to American qualifier Jordan Lee 4-6, 6-4, 7-5. The match, lasting two hours and three minutes on No 1 Court, is likely to be Hewitt's last junior appearance as he now sets his sights on the senior professional ranks.
Match Details and Comeback
Hewitt, who had not dropped a set all tournament, led 4-2 in the deciding set before Lee, the youngest boy in the event at 16, stormed back. Lee, who only turned 16 in May, broke Hewitt to love as Hewitt double-faulted while serving to stay in the match for a second time. Hewitt's father and former Wimbledon champion Lleyton Hewitt watched from the players' box, along with his mother Bec and coach Wayne Arthurs.
Despite the defeat, Hewitt showed considerable maturity in his post-match comments. "It's been a very special week for me, I've played some really good tennis," he told the crowd. "I grew up around this tournament, seeing my dad play here and it's a privilege playing on any court here. It's been a really good atmosphere all week."
Future Plans and Senior Pro Ambitions
Hewitt confirmed this was likely his last junior match and plans to focus on the senior pro tour. Currently ranked world No 606, he hopes to improve his ranking and earn a wildcard into the Australian Open and Wimbledon main draws. "That would definitely be one of my big goals long-term," he said. "I'd have to get my ranking up a little bit, but with a whole lot of hard work, it's possible. I look forward to definitely coming back in the future for the men's."
Hewitt is the first Australian boy to reach the Wimbledon junior final since Alex de Minaur in 2016, who has since risen to become a top-six player. De Minaur practised with Hewitt during the week, as did British semi-finalist Arthur Fery. Hewitt acknowledged the experience: "I feel like people this week maybe have seen how well I can play. Obviously, it's disappointing to lose the final, but I think it's a really good week."
Lee's Triumph and Potential
Jordan Lee, a qualifier, became the youngest boy to win the Wimbledon junior title. His comeback from a set down showcased his fighting spirit. Hewitt's attacking game impressed throughout the tournament but ultimately fell short against Lee's resilience. Hewitt hopes Australian Open organisers will consider a wildcard for him next season. "That would be the dream," he said, "and that's a big goal of mine – and I feel like I can show my level."
