Junior Sports Star and tennis aficionado William Hatzis chosen for Davis Cup training squad

William Hatzis might dream of playing at the Davis Cup, but he won’t have to wait that long to train there.

William Hatzis in action. Picture: Peter Kelly

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William Hatzis might dream of playing at the Davis Cup, but he won’t have to wait that long to train there.

The 13-year-old from Earlwood will soon be coached alongside Australian greats like Lleyton Hewitt, Bernard Tomic and Nick Kyrgios, after being selected for the Davis Cup training squad.

The program is open to just eight players from across Australia and begins on September 12.

Since picking up his first tennis racket at age three, William has rocketed along in the sport.

He was eight when he was first chosen for the national talent development program, and William has been No.1 in NSW for the last four years in his age group.

His support team include former Wimbledon doubles champion Janine Thompson who shares the coaching with Ryan Slarks and his trainer, mentor and godfather Spiro Hantzis.

William Hatzis with his coaches including former Wimbledon great Janine Thompson and Ryan Slarks. Picture: Peter Kelly

Mr Slarks said William’s commitment to the game will see him go far on the court.

“Will’s future is very bright, his ball striking and shotmaking skills are going to take him a long way,” Mr Slarks said.

“His backhand’s a world class shot.”

And world class is what William said he is aiming for.

“(My goal) is to become top 10 in the world.”

“I just try and work as hard as I can at training and put all of my effort into it,” William said.

Australia will host Slovakia in the Davis Cup World Group playoffs from September 16-18.

William is The Express’ latest nominee for the Junior Sports Star award, sponsored by Rebel.

The other categories are Team Spirit, sponsored by Fox Sports Pulse, Service to Sport and Young Sporting Spirit, sponsored by Simonds Homes.

To nominate someone you know, go to juniorsportsstar.com.au