Hewitt named Oz Davis Cup captain

Melbourne - Retiring veteran Lleyton Hewitt was on Tuesday appointed Australia's new Davis Cup captain, succeeding interim skipper Wally Masur.

The 34-year-old, who is calling it quits after his 20th consecutive Australian Open in January, has been positioned for the role since Pat Rafter stepped down earlier this year.

Masur agreed to fill in until Hewitt was ready.

He follows in the footsteps of other Australian tennis greats to hold the coveted role, including Neale Fraser, John Newcombe and Rafter, and becomes the youngest skipper since World War II.

"I've been fortunate enough to work under some of the greatest Davis Cup captains in history," Hewitt said at Melbourne Park.

"For me, it's about instilling my experience in these younger guys."

A veteran of 40 ties over a record 17 years' service, Hewitt will lead young guns including Bernard Tomic, Nick Kyrgios and Thanasi Kokkinakis.

Rafter, now Tennis Australia's director of player performance, said Hewitt's biggest asset was his passion.

"That has never waned for him throughout his whole career and I don't think it's going to wane now," Rafter said.

Hewitt's first tie in charge will be next March when Australia host the USA in a first-round fixture.

Australia reached the semi-finals this year, with Hewitt playing, only to be knocked out the Andy Murray-led Great Britain.