A TEENAGER from Bournemouth has met three-time Wimbledon champion Boris Becker at the finals of a national competition.

Jose Pegorini, 14, who attends Southbourne Tennis Club, has been playing the sport for three years and decided to try for the Barclays Ball Kid competition to find the country’s future tennis aces.

He headed to Northwood Health and Racquet Club near London, to receive tips and advice from the tennis star, before being put through his paces.

Jose said ahead of the event: “I play competitions across Dorset, so I’m feeling excited, but nervous, about heading to London.

The St Peter’s School student, added: “My friends can’t believe that I may get to be on TV if I am one of the winners, and how well I have done.

“As a ball kid, you get to personally meet some of the well-known tennis players, such as my favourite, Novak Djokovic, who I like because of his personality, showmanship, and the fact that he plays sowell on the court.”

Watching from the side of the court were dad Carlo, mum Felicetas, and sister Kinara, all of whom are fully supportive of Jose and his passion for tennis.

Jose’s proud dad, Carlo, said: “I think the whole selection of the Ball Kid competition is wonderful, because they don’t just pick the children who are the best at tennis, but also give the opportunity to someone who may never have won anything.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for them and if he gets through, he may get to meet some of his sporting heroes, such as Andy Murray, Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Rafa Nadal which will be fantastic for Jose.”

The competition saw the youngsters ranked on leadership, confidence and personality as well as ball skills and fitness.

Carlo said the family was waiting to hear how Jose had scored.

“Boris Becker had a chat with him. I think he was quite impressed with Jose,” he said.

The prize for the winners is the chance to be a ball kid at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals, held at the O2 in London in November.