'A challenge to be better': Cruz Hewitt reveals desire to top father's grand slam success

Cruz Hewitt does not fear the pressure that comes with carrying a famous surname, with the teen revealing he hopes to top his former world No.1 father's success.

Following in the footsteps of his two-time major champion father Lleyton, Cruz's climb up the professional rankings is only just beginning.

The 16-year-old was handed a chance at a grand slam debut when he received a wildcard into Australian Open qualifying, but fell short of the main draw with a first round defeat.

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Cruz continued his journey at Melbourne Park in the junior men's singles and recorded his first win at his home arena in the first round before falling to the world No.1 junior in the second round.

The 16-year-old served up a stern test to Czech Jan Kumstat in the second round, but was unable to get across the line to continue through the draw, falling 6-3, 7-6.

While the on-court battles did not end in the way Cruz likely desired, his movement and strategy showed the potential for him to become one of the next young stars on the circuit.

Adopting similar behaviours seen in his father at the same age, Cruz admitted he does not feel pressured to meet the expectations many likely have of him.

"I mean, there's definitely pros and cons," he told Nine of his famous surname.

"But I try and focus on the good things that come with it.

"The pressure doesn't bother me too much. I feel like it's kind of a challenge to be better than him so that's what I'm trying to do."

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Making the most of the opportunities available for him at Melbourne Park, Cruz was spotted mixing with some of the biggest names of the sport.

Reflecting on his experience with the like of Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz on the practice courts, the teen admitted he has drawn inspiration from all he has encountered.

"It was great to get it opportunity to play in the men's qualifying," Cruz said.

"I think it was a great step forward and I think I learned a lot from the experience with the crowd and just playing those men players instead of the junior players now.

"Jannik Sinner asked me to practise on the Saturday before the tournament so I was so excited, world No.1, it is like a dream to practice with him, and also with Carlos.

"Then (with) Alex De Minaur, he is like my older brother. He teaches me so much on and off the court."