Wimbledon has employed a record 282 ball boys and girls (BBGs) this year to help manage the scorching heat during the tournament. The All England Club received a record 1,600 applications for the positions, an increase of about 200 from previous years.
Heatwave Resilience
Sarah Goldson, the BBG manager, said more ball boys and girls were taken on partly to improve “resilience for the heat.” The increase also reflects factors such as the greater number of qualifying matches and the extra day of competition after the traditional rest day on middle Sunday was scrapped in 2022.
A heatwave during the second week has seen temperatures peak at about 34°C. The All England Club has introduced more shaded areas and is considering replacing iconic plants like hydrangeas with more drought-friendly flora.
Young Stars on the Court
Ball boy Eugene, 14, revealed he puts his wristbands and caps in the freezer to stay cool. He said the experience has “definitely” inspired him to pursue his dream of becoming a professional tennis player. Ball girl Alejandra, 13, is among the youngest on the team and shared the secret to perfectly rolling the ball: “It’s the perfect mixture of just looking where you want the ball to go, because if you get too focused on the power it’s going to end up in the air. Also I think it’s staying low as well, just trying to stay low on impact and just looking where you want it to go.”
Training and Selection
The BBGs are split into teams of six across the courts, rotating one hour on and one hour off. They come from 32 schools in the surrounding areas. Most are aged 15, but some are as young as 13, and there are a “handful” of 19-year-olds, according to Goldson.
The selection process starts in October with trials in schools. Training begins in February at the All England Club’s community centre in Raynes Park, with weekly sessions lasting two to two-and-a-half hours. From May half-term, all training takes place at Wimbledon, including on grass courts and championship courts in full uniform.
Compensation and Benefits
The BBGs are not paid a salary but receive a stipend of around £200 to cover expenses during the fortnight. They also get free meals, refreshments, and keep their Ralph Lauren uniform. The experience is a valuable addition to their CV and offers close access to tennis stars.
The ultimate dream for many is to appear on Centre Court for the women’s and men’s finals this weekend. However, they will not know until the day if they have been selected. Goldson said “it’s good not to look too far ahead” but noted they have “an idea” of who will be chosen.
