Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review systems.
Replay technology are set to arrive at The Championships this year.
Players will gain the ability to challenge particular decisions from the chair umpire, mirroring the system currently in operation at both the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
This technology is slated for use on the main stadium and Court One throughout the Championships and on the other four show courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This move comes just a year after the All England Club rolled out ELC, which effectively ended the 147-year role of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors will not be permitted to dispute the accuracy of the electronic line calling, but they can request the umpire to re-examine specific situations, including:
- If a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- Whether a ball touched an rival's racket or body on the way past.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a rally.
Importantly, there is no limit on the amount of reviews a competitor can ask for.
Case in Point
An illustrative example occurred in Indian Wells last week, where a top player used the review system against his opponent.
The British player admitted it was a tough call for the official, but believed his opponent had "played the rules quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a replay and ruled the player was guilty of hindrance, granting the point to his opponent.
Broader Adoption
Video reviews are not exclusive to Grand Slams. It was adopted at the American major since 2023 and the Australian Open this year.
Additionally, it is increasingly prevalent on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the men's ATP Tour plans to have the system implemented at every one of its tournaments.
Additional Innovations
Another innovation at Wimbledon this year will be the addition of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the electronic line calling system.
This solves instances where spectators have sometimes been unsure if a shot was in or out.
Finally, with exactly 100 days remaining until the start of the Championships, organizers have also revealed an increase in daily capacity at the qualifying competition in Roehampton.
