Ballkids selected for Rolex Shanghai Masters

Ballboys and ballgirls are being selected for the 2025 Rolex Shanghai Masters, which will be held at the Qizhong Tennis Center in Minhang District from September 29 to October 12.

Facing youngsters aged between 12 and 22, the public recruitment have attracted near 300 applicants, who have been gathered at Pudong's Century Link Tower this weekend for the first round of selection.

After the reach challenge, knowledge quiz, and physical tests, approximately 100 young candidates will advance to the next phase of training and selection.

"The work of ballkids involves prolonged outdoor exposure for some, while some have to work till as late as 11pm," Zhang Hong, general secretary of Xuhui District Tennis Association told Shanghai Daily.

"Therefore, this year's selection and training will place greater emphasis on their stamina and night shift capabilities," she added.

According to Zhang, the subsequent selection will narrow down approximately 60 ballkids from the 100 advancees. After a final round of training in September, they will serve this year's tournament alongside experienced ballkids who have served for previous editions of the Rolex Shanghai Masters.