Wimbledon Introduces Video Review Technology for the First Time.
Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in employing replay systems.
Replay systems will make its debut at Wimbledon for the 2025 edition.
Athletes are granted the option to challenge certain calls from the chair umpire, mirroring the practice currently in place at each of the US Open and the Australian Open.
This technology is slated for use on Centre Court and Court One throughout the Championships and on the remaining show courts when they are staging singles contests.
This move follows just a season following the AELTC implemented electronic line calling, which terminated the 147-year role of line officials.
Reviewable Decisions
Competitors cannot to dispute the accuracy of the ELC system, but they can ask for the umpire to re-examine specific decisions, including:
- Whether a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- Whether a ball made contact with an opponent's racquet or body during play.
- Potential interference end of a rally.
Importantly, there will be an unlimited number on the number of challenges a player can ask for.
A Recent Example
An illustrative incident occurred in a recent tournament recently, where a top player used the review system against Jack Draper.
The British player conceded it was a tough call for the umpire, but believed his opponent had "played the rules effectively."
The umpire viewed a replay and determined the player was guilty of hindrance, awarding the point to his opponent.
Growing Trend
This technology are not exclusive to major tournaments. The system has been in use at the US Open for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour plans to have video reviews implemented at all of its tournaments.
Additional Innovations
A further change at The Championships 2025 will be the introduction of visual indicators on displays to complement the verbal announcements from the ELC system.
This addresses instances where spectators have occasionally been unsure if a ball was out or in.
Finally, with precisely 100 days to go until the start of the tournament, organizers have further announced an increase in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
