The Princess of Wales has revealed that her eight-year-old son, Prince Louis, has set his sights on becoming a Wimbledon ball boy. Kate shared the charming family insight during a behind-the-scenes visit to the All England Club on Saturday, ahead of the women's singles final. She wore a bright strawberry-red belted top and pleated midi skirt as she chatted to staff.
Prince Louis Queries About Ball Boy Role
Speaking to 18-year-old court services team member Jenna Fontanilla, Kate disclosed that Prince Louis had been asking her about how to become a ball boy. Ms Fontanilla later said: 'She told me about how Louis was asking her about how to become a ball boy, and we were talking about how much hard work it is to be on court and how we work alongside the ball kids, and it's just so lovely.'
Modest Financial Reward for Coveted Role
If Prince Louis fulfills his ambition, he should not expect a royal payday. Wimbledon ball boys and girls are not paid a salary; instead, they receive a stipend of around £200 to cover expenses during the Championships. The role attracts around 1,400 applicants each year, with only about 280 selected, mostly aged 14 to 17. Approximately 180 come from participating local schools, while 100 experienced ball boys and girls are invited back.
Intense Training Regimen
Successful applicants begin training as early as February, attending multiple sessions weekly at the All England Club's training centre in Raynes Park. They undergo speed drills, court exercises, and written tests before moving onto the Wimbledon grass courts in May to perfect ball throwing and remaining motionless between points. Former Wimbledon ball boy Alex Crockford described the preparation as 'intense and very physical.'
Perks and Prestige
While the financial reward is modest, ball boys and girls receive free meals and refreshments during the tournament and keep their official Ralph Lauren Wimbledon uniform. Top performers may earn the chance to work on Centre Court or Court One, offering a ringside view of major matches.
Kate's Genuine Connection
Ms Fontanilla praised Kate for putting her at ease, saying: 'She's so genuine. It felt so easy. I thought I was going to be really nervous, but she made it so easy. The conversation was very natural.' She added, 'She's a people's princess, everyone says she's one of the people, and I love it.' Ms Fontanilla also told Kate how she earned her role through the Wimbledon Junior Tennis Initiative, which spotted her potential at age four.
For Prince Louis, there is still time before he reaches the minimum age to apply. But if he is serious, he will have to earn his place like every other hopeful—and accept that the prestige of the role is worth far more than the £200 reward.
