Tennis Tournament Jobs: How to Get Hired and What to Expect
If you love tennis and want to earn money while you’re at it, a tournament job could be the perfect fit. From line judges to event coordinators, there are dozens of positions that keep a competition running smoothly. Below you’ll find the main types of roles, where to look for openings, and a few quick tips to boost your chances.
Typical Jobs at a Tennis Tournament
Most tournaments need staff in three main areas: on‑court, backstage, and admin.
- On‑court officials: line judges, chair umpires, and ball kids. These people enforce the rules, call the lines, and keep balls moving.
- Event operations: set‑up crew, ticket scouts, crowd controllers, and hospitality staff. They handle the venue, manage the audience, and make sure players have what they need.
- Administrative roles: marketing assistants, data entry staff, and sponsor liaison officers. They work behind the scenes to promote the event and keep records straight.
Many jobs are seasonal and last only for the length of the tournament, which can be a few days to a couple of weeks. Some positions, like head umpire or event manager, are year‑round and require more experience.
Where to Find Tennis Tournament Job Listings
Start with the official websites of the tournaments you want to work for. Look for a "Careers" or "Jobs" link at the bottom of the page. Larger events, such as Wimbledon or the US Open, usually post an entire hiring portal.
Other good sources include:
- Sports‑specific job boards like SportsJobsUK or TeamWork.
- General gig sites such as Indeed, Reed, or LinkedIn – just search for "tennis tournament" and filter by location.
- Local tennis clubs and associations – they often need volunteers for regional matches and can point you toward paid roles.
- College sports departments – many students earn credits by helping with college‑level tournaments.
Signing up for newsletters from the governing bodies (LTA, ATP, WTA) can also give you early notice of new openings.
Tips to Land the Job
1. Tailor your CV – Highlight any sports experience, customer service, or fast‑paced work. If you’ve played tennis, even recreationally, mention it. Organizers love candidates who understand the game.
2. Get certified – Some officiating roles require a basic umpire certification. Check with your national tennis federation for short courses.
3. Show flexibility – Tournaments often need staff early in the morning or late at night. Being willing to work odd hours makes you a stronger candidate.
4. Network – Attend local tournaments as a spectator, meet volunteers, and ask about openings. A personal recommendation can fast‑track your application.
5. Prepare for the interview – Expect scenario questions like "How would you handle a heated player dispute?" or "What would you do if a ball boy is late for a match?" Answer calmly and show you can stay cool under pressure.
Once you land a role, treat it like a stepping stone. Good performance at a small club event can lead to bigger assignments at national or even international tournaments.
Working at a tennis tournament gives you a front‑row view of the sport, a chance to meet professionals, and a decent paycheck for a short stint. Keep an eye on official job pages, polish your resume, and be ready to jump in when the next event rolls around. Good luck, and enjoy the game from a new angle!
