Wimbledon Adopts Video Replay System for the First Time.
Wimbledon will follow the US and Aussie Opens in utilizing replay technology.
Replay technology will be launched at Wimbledon this year.
Athletes will gain the right to challenge certain calls made by the chair umpire, following the practice currently in operation at each of the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
The new system will be accessible on the main stadium and the number one court for the duration of the tournament and on the remaining featured courts when they are hosting singles contests.
This development comes just a year after the AELTC implemented electronic line calling, which terminated the 147-year role of line officials.
Reviewable Decisions
Competitors will not be permitted to dispute the call of the ELC system, but are allowed to request the official to review specific situations, such as:
- Whether a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- If a ball touched an rival's racket or person during play.
- Potential hindrance end of a rally.
Importantly, there will be no cap on the amount of reviews a player can ask for.
Practical Application
A recent case took place in a recent tournament recently, where Daniil Medvedev used the review system against his opponent.
Draper admitted it was a tough call for the umpire, but believed his rival had "played the rules quite well."
The umpire watched a replay and ruled the player was guilty of interference, granting the point to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
Video reviews aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. It was adopted at the US Open for two years and the Australian Open since 2025.
Additionally, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour will have the system implemented at every one of its tournaments.
Other Changes
Another innovation at Wimbledon this year involves the addition of visual indicators on scoreboards to complement the audio calls from the ELC system.
This solves situations where fans have occasionally been uncertain if a shot was in or out.
Finally, with precisely 100 days to go until the beginning of the tournament, the AELTC have also revealed an expansion in daily capacity at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
