Two French Teens Ace Opportunity as Roland-Garros Ball Retrievers
THOUARS,France – Two teenage tennis enthusiasts from Thouars,France,are set to experience the thrill of Roland-Garros up close. Maxime Barré, 13, and Baptiste Bruguet, 14, beat out thousands of other hopefuls to be selected as ball retrievers for the prestigious French Open in May 2025.
Grueling Selection Process Culminates in Court-Side Roles
The journey to the famed red clay was not easy. Barré and Bruguet, both members of the Tennis-club de Thouars, navigated two rigorous selection stages. The initial tryout, held in Lagord in November 2024, tested the candidates’ physical abilities, stamina, and technical skills specific to ball retrieval. Bruguet noted the demanding nature of the first test, where only a small fraction of participants advanced.
A second stage involved an immersive four-day training camp, held separately in La Grande-Motte and Nantes for Barré and Bruguet, respectively.These camps simulated real match conditions, pushing the teens physically and mentally.
local Training Provides a Competitive Edge
Gauthier Lecrenais, sports manager at the Tennis-club de Thouars, credits the regional tennis program for preparing the boys. The program gives players opportunities to practice at high-level tournaments. Barré and Bruguet’s prior experience as ball retrievers in local competitions gave them a solid foundation.
Dreams of Sharing the Court with Tennis Superstars
Starting May 17, 2025, the boys will embark on a three-week journey working from the qualifying rounds through the men’s final on June 8. They will work in teams of six, rotating with other teams to ensure sufficient rest. Both teens hope to catch a glimpse of top players like rising French star Arthur Fils,defending champion Carlos Alcaraz,Italian Jannik Sinner,and veteran Novak Djokovic.
While excited, Barré and Bruguet are also aware of the pressure that comes with the role. Both express a desire to perform well and avoid injuries in the lead-up to the tournament.
The two are prepared for an unforgettable experience and a chance to be a part of tennis history.
How did teh Tennis-club de Thouars’ regional program contribute to Maxime Barré and Baptiste Bruguet’s success in the selection process?
Two French Teens Ace Chance as Roland-garros Ball Retrievers
THOUARS,France – Two teenage tennis enthusiasts from Thouars,France,are set to experience the thrill of Roland-Garros up close.Maxime Barré, 13, and Baptiste Bruguet, 14, beat out thousands of other hopefuls to be selected as ball retrievers for the prestigious French Open in May 2025.
grueling Selection Process culminates in Court-Side Roles
The journey to the famed red clay was not easy. Barré and Bruguet, both members of the Tennis-club de Thouars, navigated two rigorous selection stages. The initial tryout, held in Lagord in November 2024, tested the candidates’ physical abilities, stamina, and technical skills specific to ball retrieval. Bruguet noted the demanding nature of the first test, where only a small fraction of participants advanced.
A second stage involved an immersive four-day training camp, held separately in La Grande-Motte and Nantes for Barré and Bruguet, respectively.These camps simulated real match conditions, pushing the teens physically and mentally.
local Training Provides a Competitive Edge
Gauthier Lecrenais,sports manager at the Tennis-club de Thouars,credits the regional tennis program for preparing the boys. The program gives players opportunities to practice at high-level tournaments. Barré and Bruguet’s prior experience as ball retrievers in local competitions gave them a solid foundation.
Dreams of Sharing the Court with Tennis Superstars
Starting May 17, 2025, the boys will embark on a three-week journey working from the qualifying rounds through the men’s final on June 8. They will work in teams of six, rotating with other teams to ensure sufficient rest. Both teens hope to catch a glimpse of top players like rising French star Arthur Fils,defending champion Carlos Alcaraz,Italian Jannik Sinner,and veteran Novak Djokovic.
While excited, Barré and Bruguet are also aware of the pressure that comes with the role. Both express a desire to perform well and avoid injuries in the lead-up to the tournament.
The two are prepared for an unforgettable experience and a chance to be a part of tennis history.
Q&A: Becoming a Roland-Garros Ball Retriever
- How competitive is the selection process?
- Extremely competitive! Thousands apply, and only a select few make it through rigorous physical and technical tests. The process involves multiple stages, as demonstrated by Barré and Bruguet’s journey.
- What skills are most vital for a ball retriever?
- Stamina, agility, quick reflexes, and the ability to focus under pressure are key. Candidates must also be able to understand the rules of tennis and anticipate player movements. Tip: Practice your sprints and ball-handling skills!
- What does a typical day as a ball retriever look like at roland-Garros?
- Ball retrievers work in teams, rotating throughout the day to ensure adequate rest. They are responsible for efficiently retrieving balls, providing players with towels and water, and generally maintaining the court. It’s a demanding job that requires constant attention and quick thinking.
- Can ball retrievers interact with the players?
- While interaction is limited to providing essential services, ball retrievers are in close proximity to the stars! They must remain professional and focused on their tasks, but they can sometimes exchange a word or two with players. Fun Fact: Some players have been known to offer a signed ball to their favorite ball retrievers!
- What’s the best part about being a ball retriever?
- Being part of the electric atmosphere of Roland-Garros, witnessing top-level tennis up close, and experiencing the thrill of a major tournament. plus,it’s an amazing opportunity to learn about the sport and potentially meet your tennis idols.
Just like Maxime and Baptiste,you too could have the experience of a lifetime! Apply yourself and who knows,maybe you’ll soon be courtside at a Grand Slam tournament.
