During the junior wheelchair girls' doubles semifinal match at the 2024 US Open, attention shifted toward aspiring ball kids competing for 80 coveted spots in the 2025 ball crew. Over 1,600 applicants, aged 14 and up, underwent rigorous agility and court awareness tests to secure a position. The appeal extends beyond the role itself; many seek a chance to meet their tennis heroes up close. With the upcoming US Open promising top-tier action, for many participants, being part of the ball crew is a unique summer job that symbolizes a larger sports tradition and a closer connection to their favorite players.
The appeal goes far beyond chasing balls; it is the rare chance to get up close to their tennis idols, igniting serious hustle on the courts.
For many, the experience was a way to be part of one of New York's biggest sporting traditions and maybe snag the best view of tennis history.
Being a ball boy, you have the best seats in the house. It doesn't get much better than that, according to one of the hopeful kids.
While the ball crew members earn an hourly wage, for most, the experience is priceless, offering front-row seats to world-class matches and tennis icons.
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