Aussie tennis great Lleyton Hewitt on life as a mentor to the next generation
From centre court to courtside, Lleyton Hewitt opens up about his new-found role as a mentor to Australia’s next generation of tennis champions.
Confidential
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Courtside mentor Lleyton Hewitt says he has relished his guiding role with Australia’s top players.
The former Australian tennis champion and Davis Cup captain says he has a strong bond with the likes of Nick Kyrgios and Alex De Minaur.
Hewitt had been in Kyrgios’ player’s box throughout the Australian Open.
“I like being a mentor because you’re working with all different players and personalities,’’ Hewitt said.
“Nick and I have always had a really good relationship.
“He didn’t play one Davis Cup tie. Last year he’s had some ups and downs. As a captain, you’ve got to make some stances. But Nick and I have always got along really well.
“The biggest thing is he’s always known I’ve had his back since he was orange boy at a Davis Cup tie as a 15, 16-year-old.
“He does everything a little bit differently as well, you’ve got to realise you can’t put everyone in the same box.”
Hewitt said the hours as a mentor had been worse than as a player, but it was a thrill to have been part of the ATP Cup and Australian Open.
He watched some of Ash Barty’s match yesterday at Arbory Afloat, who have partnered with Canadian Club to host a big screen for every game live from 11am to 1am.
It also features a Miami-inspired menu designed by executive chef Nick Bennett.
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Hewitt’s schedule this year will include some grand slams following the Davis Cup tie in Adelaide at the start of March.
“I enjoy this time of year, it’s a real buzz,’’ Hewitt said. “The weather could be better, it’s so up and down.
“I’ll definitely go to Wimbledon and the US Open and then Davis Cup finals if we win.”