Around 280 ball boys and ball girls work at Wimbledon every year, drawn from approximately 1,400 applications from youngsters aged 14 to 17. They are responsible for ensuring all 675 matches run seamlessly by retrieving stray balls and providing players with fresh ones promptly.
Training and Selection
Training begins in February with weekly sessions at the All England Club's training facility in Raynes Park. Candidates undergo rigorous speed drills, court exercises, and written examinations on regulations and protocols. From mid-May, training moves to the grass courts at Wimbledon, where BBGs practice in full uniform before performing before millions of viewers worldwide.
Alex Crockford, a former Wimbledon ball boy who served in the 2000s, told the Express: "The training was intense and very physical. We practiced how to throw the ball perfectly to the players and how to stand still for long periods."
Compensation and Benefits
Despite the rigorous nature of the role, ball boys and girls do not receive a wage. Instead, they typically get a stipend of approximately £200 to cover costs during the tournament's two-week period. They also receive complimentary meals and refreshments during shifts and are allowed to retain their official Wimbledon kit, provided by Ralph Lauren.
Top-performing BBGs may be selected to work on prestigious show courts, including Centre Court or Court One, giving them a prime vantage point for some of the most significant matches in world tennis.
