Australian Open ball kid health update after youngster collapses on court in worrying scenes
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A ball kid who collapsed during a mixed doubles match at the Australian Open on Sunday is said to be 'fine', according to Tennis Australia.
The incident occurred during what has been reported as the hottest day of the tournament so far.
The young ball kid fainted while working at the baseline during a match between the pairing of Tim Puetz and Demi Schuurs against Australian duo JP Smith and Kimberly Birrell.
Medical assistance was quickly summoned after spectators alerted players to the child's deteriorating condition.
The ball kid collapsed in the searing heat
CHANNELNINE
Puetz and Schuurs were serving at 1-1 in the second set, having lost the opening set of the contest.
The pair had just finished celebrating winning a point when fans in attendance drew their attention to the ball kid's concerning state.
The young assistant, positioned at the baseline, was showing visible signs of being unwell in the challenging conditions.
Spectators' quick alertness to the situation allowed the players to notice the emergency before it escalated further.
German player Puetz immediately rushed to assist when he noticed the ball kid's distress.
The youngster required medical assistance
EUROSPORT
The youngster appeared visibly woozy before fainting in Puetz's arms as he provided support.
The chair umpire quickly called for medical assistance upon seeing the situation unfold.
The incident highlighted the challenging conditions players and support staff faced during what was described as the tournament's hottest day.
"Unfortunately one of the ball kids is unwell and that's very unfortunate," David Basheer said on Channel Nine.
"Ball officials do a wonderful job at the Australian Open and their welfare as well as player welfare is paramount."
Tennis Australia later confirmed that the "ball kid is fine" after being checked over by a doctor.
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The ball kid has recovered from the incident
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Australian duo Birrell and Smith went on to win the match 6-3, 5-7, 10-8 to progress to the quarter-finals.
They could end up facing British duo Olivia Nicholls and Henry Patten in the semi-finals if both pairs make it that far.
The two Brits upset the No 1 seeds Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori earlier on.
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