Hewitt optimistic after Open draw

Lleyton Hewitt is optimistic about this year's Australian Open. Source: Wayne Ludbey / News Corp Australia

AUSTRALIAN Open dreamer Lleyton Hewitt has admitted to some relief at finally ending his horror run of seeded first-round opponents.

Hewitt suffered first-round defeats at the hands of seeded players like Janko Tipsarevic and David Nalbandian in four of his past six Opens, but will face Chinese wildcard Zhang Ze on Tuesday.

"It's nice not to play one of the real top guys," Hewitt said on Saturday.

"But you've got to be prepared to play anyone. I try not to worry about it leading into the draw obviously.

"He's a dangerous player. He swings from the hip on a lot of shots. He's got a good serve, nice forehand, backhand and likes changing direction off both sides."

Hewitt still dreams of winning his home Open, but the veteran isn't making any bold predictions on the eve of this grand slam tilt.

Lleyton Hewitt will take it a match at a time. Source: News Corp Australia

Turning 34 next month, the former world No. 1 is long odds to achieve that goal, but is determined to enter his campaign for a third grand slam title with a positive mindset.

"When you start the tournament, that dream's still there for everyone, the 128 of us that are in the draw," Hewitt said.

"Nothing changes in that aspect. Over the years I think I pride myself on not looking too far ahead anyway.

"Even when I was No. 1 in the world, I always played every match on its merits, gave the utmost respect to my opponents, who I had to play.

"I've said it so many times — it's a matter of trying to get through the first week of a grand slam."

Despite his advanced years, Hewitt isn't entering his 19th straight Open thinking it will be his last.

"I think once those thoughts sort of enter your mind it can probably distract you and be a little bit of a negative influence when you're trying to perform at your best out there," he said.

"I'm that big a competitor. I think once I hit the match court out there my focus will basically be on the one-on-one aspect and to try to get the best out of myself."

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