Babolat Orange (Stage 2)

The Babolat Orange Stage 2 ball is a critical developmental milestone for children aged 7 to 10. For the 2026 season, Babolat has focused on the 'flight consistency' of this ball, ensuring that its 50% reduced speed and lower bounce are perfectly calibrated for the 60-foot (18-meter) court. The ball's construction is a masterpiece of age-appropriate engineering: by reducing the rebound height, the ball stays within the child's optimal strike zone (between the waist and shoulder), which prevents them from developing 'overhead' habits or extreme western grips just to get the ball back. This encourages the development of a natural, fluid swing path. The felt is a high-visibility orange and yellow pattern, which helps young players track the ball's rotation and speed more easily, a key factor in developing 'ball sense.' Technically, the Orange ball uses a low-compression core that is significantly softer than the Green or Yellow stages, making it nearly impossible for a child to hit the ball 'out' of the designated court size if they are using proper technique. This leads to immediate success and higher engagement levels, which is the primary goal of junior tennis programs. Experts emphasize that the Babolat Orange ball is essential for teaching 'court geometry' and placement, as the reduced pace rewards smart hitting over raw power. The 2026 iteration is also designed to be environmentally durable, withstanding the frequent 'scuffing' and dragging that occurs when children play. For parents and coaches, the Babolat Orange ball is the trusted choice for building a foundation of confidence and fun that will keep children in the sport for a lifetime.