This Is What It Takes to Be a Ballperson at the U.S. Open

The U.S. Open demands the best out of its participants; the summer heat, grueling sprints and pressure of the crowds can really take a toll.

And no, we're not talking about Novak Djokovic or Serena Williams.

The unsung heroes of the U.S. Open -- and every major tennis tournament, for that matter -- are the ball people. Eager boys and girls volunteer their time to sprint around, picking up loose tennis balls and to ensure the operation runs smoothly.

To find out what it takes to be a ballperson at the U.S. Open, we went through the tryout process.

It's not easy.

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The role requires you to be quick but invisible -- efficient without interrupting the flow of the game. One errant throw is sure to earn you an eye roll from all who are watching.

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Suffice to say, we're not quitting our day jobs anytime soon.

The U.S. Open begins on Aug. 25 at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens.