Manila: A total of 31 ball kids have been selected to participate in the WTA 125 Philippine Open, which is set to commence with its qualifying round on January 24 at the newly-renovated Rizal Memorial Tennis Center. These young participants were chosen from a pool of 60 applicants, based on their skills in ball handling, running, teamwork, and communication.

According to Philippines News Agency, the selection process was rigorously supervised by Gerhard Bernard Mamawal, the junior tennis initiative national coordinator and assistant coach at San Beda University. Mamawal, along with national coaches Cris Cuarto and Roland Kraut, was responsible for overseeing the tryouts and training sessions for the ball kids. Mamawal emphasized the importance of commitment and noted that having experience as a tennis player is beneficial since it provides familiarity with tennis scoring.

Mamawal also mentioned the potential benefits of establishing a regular ball kid program in the Philippines, should the country host regular professional tournaments in the future. He is currently involved with the Milo tennis program and sees such initiatives as an opportunity to further nurture young talent.

The tournament will also feature University of Santo Tomas standout Kaye Ann Emana, the UAAP Season 87 Most Valuable Player, who has secured a wild card spot in the qualifying rounds scheduled for January 24 and 25. Additionally, world No. 49 Alexandra Eala and 2025 Philippine Columbian Association Open champion Tennielle Madis have been granted wild cards in the main draw, which begins on January 26. Eala's participation in the event will be contingent upon her performance in the doubles event at the Australian Open, following her first-round exit in the singles competition.