How Much Money Does a Tennis Ball Boy Make? The Real Numbers
Jun, 2 2025
Think chasing tennis balls is just a summer gig for kids? Guess again. There’s real money and some cool perks on the line, but the exact numbers might surprise you. Ball boys (and ball girls) at big tournaments do way more than just sprint after stray shots—they’re part of the show.
The world’s most famous tennis events, like Wimbledon or the US Open, pay differently and have their own unique rules. At some places, you actually get a paycheck. In others, you walk away with gear, meals, and a front-row seat to see tennis legends smash and volley. Before you start dreaming of a windfall, let’s get into what you can really expect on your payslip, how you get picked, and what it’s actually like on the court.
- Ball Boy Role and Selection
- How Much Money Do Ball Boys Make?
- Perks Beyond the Paycheck
- Interesting Facts and Hidden Benefits
- Tips for Getting the Job
Ball Boy Role and Selection
Being a ball boy (or ball girl) is way more demanding than it looks on TV. These kids and teens have a front-row spot at big matches, but really, they’re working hard behind the scenes. They need to be lightning quick, alert for every serve, and able to handle a crowd of thousands staring at them. At tournaments like Wimbledon and the US Open, ball boys are trained to follow a strict set of rules. They have to know exactly when to roll a ball, how to hand a towel, and when to blend into the background so matches run smoothly.
Getting picked for this job isn’t random. Young tennis fans usually apply months ahead. For big events like Wimbledon, the process starts with an online application, followed by tryouts. Hopefuls are tested on speed, coordination, and the ability to focus for hours. You’ll need to pass a couple of intense drills. Only about 250 out of 1,000 applicants make the final cut at Wimbledon. Most are teenagers, aged 14 to 18. At the US Open, ball boys can be as young as 14, but there’s no upper age limit. They have to pass fitness tests and take part in training sessions where they learn tennis rules, court etiquette, and ball skills.
This isn’t just a job for school holidays. Ball boys are expected to show up on time, rock a clean uniform, and handle the pressure when things get heated on the court. Many tournaments offer spots to local kids, but a few take ball crew members from all over the world. The job is open to anyone who can prove they’re quick, respectful, and reliable—just don’t expect to get in without a few stressful trials first.
- Tennis ball boy salary isn’t the only draw—this gig gives you serious bragging rights and first-hand experience at major tournaments.
- The application and selection process can include written tests, in-person drills, and several rounds of evaluation depending on the event.
- Good communication and teamwork are just as important as speed.
How Much Money Do Ball Boys Make?
The pay for ball boys isn’t exactly headline news, but if you’re thinking about signing up, you’ll want to know the numbers. Depending on the tournament and country, what you get can vary—a lot. Some top tennis tournaments offer a proper paycheck, while others focus more on perks.
Here’s a look at actual earnings from well-known events:
| Tournament | Typical Age | Pay (USD) | Other Rewards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wimbledon (UK) | 14-17 | $0 | Free kit, meals, certificates, and a behind-the-scenes experience |
| US Open (USA) | 14+ | $15 - $16/hour | Uniform, food, possible bonuses |
| Australian Open (Australia) | 12-15 | Volunteer (unpaid) | Gear, meals, event tickets |
| French Open (Roland-Garros) | 12-16 | Volunteer (unpaid) | Kit, food, souvenirs |
| Regional/Local Tournaments | Varies | $50 - $100 per tournament | Snacks, T-shirt |
So if you want to know where the real cash is, it’s tennis ball boy salary at American tournaments like the US Open. Young helpers can make up to $500 or more over the two-week event, and that’s not counting meals or extra little perks.
Don’t expect similar pay at Wimbledon—over there, it’s all about the experience and sweet Adidas gear. Most European Grand Slams treat the role as a volunteer honor, with snacks, swag, and memories making up for the lack of money. Small local tournaments might throw you a few bucks (usually just a flat rate or a nominal fee), but nothing you’ll brag about at the bank.
One thing that’s important: most tournaments have strict age ranges and usually pick kids who have already been trained in ball boy basics. The process is competitive, especially at the big events, so it’s not just about showing up and getting paid.
Perks Beyond the Paycheck
Alright, so cash is cool, but being a tennis ball boy comes with some sweet extras that might matter even more than the money. At places like Wimbledon, ball boys and girls don’t just leave with a paycheck—they walk out with limited-edition kit, meals, and an experience you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re at a Grand Slam, you get official Adidas or Nike uniforms you can’t just buy in stores, and trust me, those alone are collector’s items for tennis fans.
Let’s talk inside access. Ball kids get to hang out court-side with tennis superstars, sometimes chatting or snapping a quick photo during practice, and for many, it’s once-in-a-lifetime. According to an interview with former Wimbledon ball girl Chloe Collinger,
“You’re literally steps away from players like Roger Federer or Serena Williams. There’s nothing like it, and people definitely remember you after your two weeks on the job.”
Now, check this out. At the Australian Open, ball kids work shifts but get hot meals, snacks, sunscreen, and all-day drinks. At Wimbledon, the perks include afternoon tea, souvenir towels, and a formal letter of recommendation for your school or future job applications—kind of a big deal if you want to show off your hustle.
| Event | Uniform | Meals | Other Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wimbledon | Custom Ralph Lauren kit | Lunch, tea | Souvenir towel, reference letter |
| US Open | Nike kit | Meals provided | Chance to keep uniform, media exposure |
| Australian Open | Adidas kit | Main meal & snacks | Daily transport, career workshops |
But here’s the part that’s just as important: networking. Ball kids get to meet coaches, tournament directors, and former pros—sometimes those connections lead to future job offers or even a path into tennis coaching. And for those who dream big, a spot as a tennis ball boy at a world-famous event looks great on a resume or college application.
Sure, you might not walk away loaded, but you’ll get exclusive stuff and an inside view of the pro tennis world. If you’re thinking about signing up, the perks definitely stack up fast.
Interesting Facts and Hidden Benefits
Being a ball boy at a pro tennis tournament is more than a quick paycheck. For starters, you get access to places the regular crowd can only dream about, like behind-the-scenes tunnels and practice courts where the big stars warm up. At Wimbledon, ball boys and girls are called BBGs and wear custom Ralph Lauren uniforms—those alone are worth a chunk of change and you get to keep the kit after the event.
Here’s something wild: a lot of ball boys meet their tennis idols up close. Novak Djokovic is known for joking with them, and Roger Federer often tosses them signed wristbands after matches. It’s not just stars and swag, though. Some tournaments include meals, transportation, plus tickets for family or friends for selected matches.
- Free uniforms and official tournament gear (think sneakers, hats, and jackets).
- Work experience that actually impresses on college or job applications.
- Guest passes to high-demand matches—sometimes even the finals.
- Firsthand career advice from tournament staff or pro players, if you ask at the right moment.
- Lasting friendships with ball crew from all over the world.
Take a look at how some of these extras stack up by event:
| Tournament | Uniform Value | Free Meals | Celebrity Access | Other Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wimbledon | $250+ | Yes | Very Likely | Tickets for family, training certificate |
| US Open | $200+ | Yes | Likely | Signed memorabilia, pro photos |
| Australian Open | $150+ | Yes | Possible | Exclusive tours, career advice |
The best part? Tennis ball boy salary often comes with bragging rights you can’t buy. Years after working the courts, people talk about the rallies they saw, the autographs they scored, or the TV close-ups their grandparents caught during a live match. Not a bad gig if you ask me.
Tips for Getting the Job
If you’ve got your eye on becoming a ball boy (or ball girl) at a real tournament, it pays to know what recruiters actually look for. These aren’t just random picks from the crowd. Spots at events like Wimbledon and the US Open are limited and pretty competitive. Here’s what you need to know.
- Application Process: Most top tournaments open applications once a year, usually online. For example, Wimbledon starts its hunt in the fall, and you have to be 14-18 years old and based in the UK. The US Open has similar age limits, and you apply through their official site. Don’t wait for a last-minute opening—these spots fill up fast.
- Tryouts Matter: After you apply, there’s often a tryout (Wimbledon calls it a "selection trial"). These test your speed, focus, and coordination—because you’ve got to move fast and stay sharp. There’s no slacking: if you fumble a ball during practice, someone else can snag your spot.
- Training is Real: Once selected, you’re not just thrown out on Centre Court. Wimbledon candidates go through months of training, sometimes twice a week, learning everything from hand signals to rolling balls the right way. The US Open has less strict training, but you’ll still get coached on the basics before you ever hit the courts.
- Keep Fit: You don’t need to be an athlete, but you’ll have to show stamina. You’ll be running, squatting, and kneeling for hours, surrounded by cameras and crowds. Some kids say it’s harder than gym class.
- Act Professional: Besides being quick, you have to look sharp. Uniforms must be perfect every day. During matches, you can’t talk to players, clap, or even smile at the crowd—seriously, they’re strict about it.
A former Wimbledon ball boy summed it up best:
“You have to be quick, but what really counts is staying focused every second. The pros notice when you miss a beat.”
If you want to boost your chances, start getting used to early mornings, running short sprints, and perfecting your focus. Remember, all this work is why the tennis ball boy salary might not be huge, but the experience is priceless if you love the game or want to see big-name pros up close.