World 59 revisits ball kid roots at Hobart International

American tennis player Claire Liu, who spent years as a ball kid when she was younger, said it was really fun to meet this year’s squad. MEET THE YOUNG STARS

Tasmania’s youngest tennis stars have taken to the court ahead of the Hobart International, but they won’t be playing any matches.

The elite squad of ball kids has been training for weeks in the lead up to the tennis tournament, which has returned to Hobart after a two year hiatus.

First-time ball kids and avid tennis players Hugo, 11, and Angelina, 11, said they were excited to be standing courtside with some of the tournament’s biggest names.

Hugo said the most important part about being a ball kid was staying focused and being helpful to the players.

“It’s a bit nerve-racking but it’s also fun,” he said.

First time ball kids Hugo Edrich 11 and Angelina Stanger 11 with tennis player Claire Liu. Ball kids at the Hobart International tennis tournament. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

American tennis player and World Number 59 Claire Liu, who spent years as a ball kid when she was younger, said it was really fun to meet this year’s squad.

“From personal experience, I always had a lot of fun. You get to watch amazing tennis right from the court. I think its one of the best seats in the tournament,” Liu said.

“They have a really important job and I think they always do such a good job. I just hope they have a great experience too.”

The 22-year-old will compete in the Hobart International for the first time this year, where she will go head to head with world number 51 Yulia Putintseva in round one.

Originally published as World 59 revisits ball kid roots at Hobart International