Cruz Hewitt Pays Tribute to Father Lleyton Hewitt With Special Gesture After Career Breakthrough at DC Open

22 years after his father, Lleyton Hewitt, lifted the trophy in Washington, Cruz Hewitt has earned a milestone victory at the 2026 Mubadala DC Open. The 17-year-old celebrated the triumph with a special nod to his father and later opened up about how it felt to follow in the footsteps of the former world No. 1.

Cruz Hewitt Recreates His Father Lleyton Hewitt’s Celebration After DC Open Win

Hewitt recently made waves at Wimbledon, reaching the boys’ final while enjoying the support of Roger Federer and his daughters. Although he fell short against Jordan Lee in the title clash, the 17-year-old has carried his momentum into the ATP 500 event in Washington, D.C.

Taking on Marcos Giron in his opening match, Hewitt claimed a dominant 6-3, 6-4 victory to secure the first ATP Tour win of his career, with his father in attendance. He celebrated the milestone in memorable fashion by recreating Lleyton Hewitt’s iconic celebration, complete with the “C’mon!” scream and hand gesture.

Appearing on the Tennis Channel after his win, Hewitt humorously revealed that he wasn’t sure what the celebration was called before expressing his deep appreciation for his father.

“It’s called the the vicht. I think. I need to check on that to be honest. He never named it. He just always did it. And then when I was little, I’ve just seen it. I’ve never really asked about it, so I might have to do that. But no, it’s cool to to be able to do that. Because obviously my dad’s been a huge part of where I am today. So, I’m grateful to have him,” he said.

The 17-year-old also opened up about how inspirational it was to see his father Lleyton’s name displayed among the tournament’s former champions while competing.

“It’s very surreal. Pretty special to play my first two qualies matches on center court and my dad’s name being in the back. It’s kind of inspirational to look up at it as well. Super special to be back here,” he added.

While expressing gratitude for his father’s support, Hewitt made it clear that he is focused on carving his own path in professional tennis.

“That’s obviously what I’m trying to do. Trying to forge my own path as well. Use what advice my dad has as well from his experience which I think helps a lot. I’m grateful to be where I am today for sure,” Hewitt said.

MORE: Roger Federer’s Twin Daughters Delight Cruz Hewitt With Heartwarming Gesture After His Wimbledon Feat

Up next, Cruz Hewitt will face the winner of the match between Stefanos Tsitsipas and defending champion Alex de Minaur in the second round of the DC Open.