Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review systems.
Replay technology will make its debut at The Championships this year.
Players are granted the right to contest certain decisions made by the official, echoing the protocol currently in use at both the US Open and the Australian Open.
The new system will be accessible on Centre Court and Court One for the duration of the Championships and on the remaining show courts when they are staging singles matches.
This step follows just a season following the AELTC implemented ELC, which terminated the 147-year tradition of line judges.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors cannot to dispute the accuracy of the electronic line calling, but are allowed to request the umpire to re-examine other decisions, such as:
- If a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- Whether a ball made contact with an opponent's racquet or body on the way past.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a rally.
Importantly, there is no limit on the number of challenges a player can ask for.
Case in Point
A recent example occurred in Indian Wells recently, where Daniil Medvedev initiated the video challenge against his opponent.
Draper admitted it was a tough call for the official, but thought his rival had "used the regulations quite well."
The umpire watched a replay and determined Draper was responsible for interference, awarding the point to Medvedev.
Growing Trend
This technology aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. It was adopted at the US Open since 2023 and the Aussie Open this year.
Additionally, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by next season the ATP circuit will have video reviews implemented at every one of its events.
Other Changes
Another innovation at Wimbledon this year will be the introduction of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the electronic line calling system.
This solves instances where spectators have occasionally been uncertain if a ball was out or in.
In other news, with exactly a century of days remaining until the start of the Championships, organizers have further revealed an increase in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
