IT was the opportunity every ball boy dreams of. Would somebody get Ana Ivanovic a tennis ball?
About 50 beaming teens gladly obliged as the tennis stunner was ushered into a pack of Australian Open junior officials for a photo opportunity on the steps of Parliament.
The Serbian star was among the first of the high-profile players to welcome the squad - more than 370 ball kids from around Australia and another 20 from Korea.
"I think it's really nice they all come together," Ivanovic said.
"I know they work hard, they have some serious training to get on board but it's always really nice to have them.
"They do such a great job and are always on the ball. It's nice and they make our life very easy. And they are the best dressed.
Duane Coles, 15 of Rowville, will be among the squad to work at this year's event for the very first time.
He admitted to spending hours shuttling tennis balls down the hallway of his house in preparation for the Australian Open.
"We have to make sure when we roll the ball it's really straight and accurate," he said."I'm looking forward to getting on the courts and seeing the players."
Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley and Minister for Major Projects Dr Denis Napthine also welcomed the participants and reminded Ivanovic of her star-status down under thanks to her special relationship with Australian golfer Adam Scott.
"I hope you do really well in the Australian Open I think all of Melbourne will be barracking for you not only because you are a wonderful tennis player but of course you are 'Aussie Anna' because of your friendship with Adam," Dr Napthine said.
Source : www.heraldsun.com.au
