What Happens To The Used Tennis Balls After Wimbledon?

With about 55,000 total balls used in the Wimbledon match, the sports association has been putting its effort to resolve the problem in tennis ball disposals. It’s a great thing that other sports entities follow suit, but each entity has its way to deal with it. That means Wimbledon has its way.  So what happens to the used tennis balls after Wimbledon? Here’s the answer to this question.

Used tennis balls are sold for a cheaper price after the Wimbledon tournament. The balls’ sales are given to the charity that Wimbledon supports. There are instances when these balls are repurposed by companies that acquire the used balls. 

If you want to be a part of this movement about caring for the environment, I listed some ideas that you can do for used balls. I also listed the shops where you can find used balls, so you can be a part of the community that recycles and repurpose.

What happens to the used tennis balls after Wimbledon?

The Wimbledon tennis ball supplier Dunlop Slazenger Group sells the used balls the day after the match at a kiosk near Court 14. Then the group donates the proceeds to the Wimbledon Foundation. It costs $4.14 for a tin of three balls, which is cheaper than the new Slazenger tennis balls that cost $15.95.

Tennis fans buy used balls because it gives them the chance to own the balls played by the star players. Take note that they’re not buying worn-out balls. Because these balls are replaced after seven games. Sometimes, they are replaced even before the 7th game, when the player requests for a replacement. 

But some companies step up the game by repurposing used tennis balls. The thousands of balls used in the Wimbledon match is a huge waste, so the company behind the hearO speaker decided to turn it into a Bluetooth speaker casing. To maximize the ball, the company uses 75% of the ball as a casing.

What about how many tennis balls are used in a match? I have a great article about it so if you want to know, i highly recommend that you check it out.

Can you reuse tennis balls?

You can reuse tennis balls in different ways, but it depends on the condition of the ball. If it’s worn out, you can use it as a cleaner, packing materials, and a key holder. If the ball is still in its almost mint condition, you can use it for your laundry. You can also use the ball as a dog’s toy. 

Household DIYs and hacks

You can turn the worn-out tennis balls into a cleaner by sticking the ball in a long dowel. It’s an effective tool in removing cobwebs and other markings on your wall without scratching it.  Because tennis balls don’t produce scratches, it’s a good floor protector. You can use it to cover the feet of chair legs with the ball, so it won’t scratch the floor.

Used tennis balls also work as an alternative for stuffing your package. Because tennis balls have cushions that can absorb shocks, it’s effective in filling up the space as you pack. It’s also more environmentally friendly than styrofoam.

Used tennis balls also work as a key holder. Just cut the ball halfway resembling a closed mouth. Then attach craft eyeballs to add character to the ball. Mount it on the wall to access the key easily. 

Tennis balls also work as dryer balls. It benefits your laundry in several ways.  One of the benefits is helping the pillows and comforters to keep their shape. It also speeds up the drying time of your laundry. With the aid of the tennis balls, wrinkles are reduced, and there’s less static on your clothes.

Some users suggest using a new ball for the laundry, but some users say that the dye leaves a stain on the fabric. So using a used ball is better to use. Just make sure it’s clean.

Aids and toys

Adult care facilities benefit from used balls because they use them on the feet of the walker’s legs to give stability and comfort to the elder as they walk.

Another purpose of the used balls is it works as a toy for dogs. Because it’s bouncy, the dogs love it. 

Just a warning, it can be dangerous for the dogs to play tennis balls because they can choke on them. The best way to avoid it is to supervise them when they play using a tennis ball. It also helps when they put down any item in their mouth after you say the command.

Read also: What To Do With Old Tennis Rackets? (5 Great Ideas)

Where to buy used tennis balls?

Used tennis balls are available after the Wimbledon match, but it’s also available on other online shops like Amazon. Local tennis clubs also sell used balls. An animal shelter is another place to check. These shops offer small quantities and in bulk, which is perfect for practicing and dog training.

Amazon sellers

Amazon sellers like Farrinne sells used tennis balls, but don’t expect it to be a Wimbledon ball. The balls it offers are pressurized, so you can expect the ball to bounce like the new ones. The seller has different boxes that can load from 25 balls and above. It’s a perfect toy for dogs. 

Local tennis clubs

Calling the nearest local tennis club in your area is a good option if you plan to buy used tennis balls. It’s guaranteed that they have a large number of tennis balls as they use them during students’ training. But expect that the tennis balls are sold out especially when someone procures them for a large project.

Animal shelters

Find animal shelters that sell it. It may be an odd place to look for, but the Animal Welfare Society (AWS) proved it. In 2017, it sold more than $3,000 worth of used tennis balls, which they use muffin containers as a packaging material. 

You may find it unusual to buy the balls in an animal shelter, but AWS was proof of it. Having said that, you may check other organizations or companies that may sell it. They may be doing it for a cause or any other reason. Just don’t forget to ask the people around you to get guidelines for buying in such places.