Kia announced on July 28 that it has begun recruiting youth participants to serve as ball kids on the courts of the ‘2026 Australian Open’ tennis tournament. Applications will be accepted through August 27.

Ball kids play a vital role in tennis by retrieving and supplying balls during matches, ensuring the smooth operation of on-court activities.

Eligible applicants are Korean youths aged 12 to 15 as of January 1 next year, who are children or grandchildren of customers who currently own a Kia vehicle—including those who purchased via lease, long-term rental, or as a used car. Applicants must also be able to travel abroad. Registration can be completed through the dedicated Kia Ball Kids website.

The selection process will evaluate applicants based on their English proficiency, knowledge of tennis match rules, and physical activity skills. Ultimately, 20 young finalists will be selected to join the Australian Open as official ball kids.

Kia has proudly supported the Australian Open, held annually in Melbourne, since 2002. The company’s ball kid selection program has also been running each year since 2003.

Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”

Photo=Yonhap News