The Australian Open 2025 is set to feature several players with compelling stories as they seek to carve their paths through the tournament's qualifying rounds. Among them is Hady Habib, who aims to make history for Lebanon, Cruz Hewitt, the son of Australian tennis legend Lleyton Hewitt, and Bernard Tomic, making his return after two years of absence. Each player's narrative not only reflects their personal aspirations but also resonates with broader themes of perseverance and hope.
Hady Habib, currently ranked no. 216, is striving to be the first male competitor from war-torn Lebanon at the Australian Open. His determination has been fueled by recent successes, having earned his spot by winning at the ATP Challenger tournament in Chile. "I know we've had some challenging times in the past, and we're dealing with some right now, but people are strong, and we always find a way to come back," Habib told SBS News.
Habib, who moved to Lebanon at age six, has been inspired by the struggles of his country amid the Israeli bombardment and economic crises. He expressed, "I know it's just a sport, but I feel like representing Lebanon... it kind of resembles how our nation has fought back." His coach, Patricio Heras, shared, "It’s been honestly a rollercoaster… I think he pushed really hard," demonstrating the emotional stakes behind Habib's venture.
Meanwhile, the rising star Cruz Hewitt is gearing up for the 2025 Australian Open as he enters the qualifiers. Hewitt, only 16, is taking his initial steps to join the ranks of professional tennis, competing directly alongside seasoned players. With the legendary Lleyton Hewitt as his father, Cruz is eager to distinguish his identity as he engages opponents on the court. His debut match pits him against Nikoloz Basilashvili, who once ranked as high as World No. 16. Cruz’s ranking currently stands at no. 1265—a number he hopes to improve dramatically based on his performance at the Open.
The young player’s aspirations echo the commitment of new talent to the sport. He hopes to spark inspiration among budding tennis players just as Habib’s story resonates with those yearning for success and stability amid adversity back home.
On the other side of the court, Bernard Tomic is vying for redemption and reinstatement at the Australian Open. After facing setbacks—including failing to qualify for the last two tournaments—Tomic, now ranked no. 214, is eager to showcase his skills once more. His past highlights include reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open three times, and he is determined to regain his position through the qualifiers. Tomic told reporters he faces Slovakian veteran Jozef Kovalik on January 7, and he must win to advance.
Tomic's arduous climb back serves as another narrative of resilience within these qualifiers, facing obstacles on and off the court but pressing on with diligence. He has been working steadily to improve his ranking, having previously dipped to no. 828 during the tumultuous 2022 season.
The Australian Open is scheduled to commence its main draw on January 12, following the qualifiers, which will run from January 6 through 11. Organizers have combined the tournament excitement with various events, including exhibition matches and Kids Tennis Day, during the week-long qualifying stage. This year marks the second consecutive tournament commencing on a Sunday to ease scheduling pressures.
These players—Habib, Hewitt, and Tomic—illustrate the dynamic array of talents and stories at the Australian Open. Each competitor not only demonstrates personal ambition but also serves as symbols of hope and resilience. Despite various challenges faced, whether personal, national, or professional, their journeys highlight the spirit of the sport and its innate power to inspire anew.
With the qualifiers just around the corner, anticipation surrounds Melbourne Park as each player strives not just for victory, but to fulfill dreams and revive spirits through their participation at this prestigious tournament.