Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing replay systems.
Replay technology are set to arrive at Wimbledon this year.
Athletes are granted the right to challenge certain calls made by the chair umpire, echoing the practice already in place at each of the American Grand Slam and the Aussie major.
This innovation will be operational on the main stadium and the number one court for the duration of the tournament and on the other four featured courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This move follows just a year after the AELTC rolled out electronic line calling, which terminated the centuries-old role of line judges.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players will not be permitted to dispute the accuracy of the ELC system, but are allowed to request the umpire to re-examine specific decisions, including:
- If a ball has bounced twice.
- If a ball touched an opponent's racquet or person on the way past.
- Possible hindrance at the conclusion of a rally.
Notably, there is no limit on the number of reviews a competitor can initiate.
Practical Application
A recent case took place in a recent tournament recently, where a top player used the review system against Jack Draper.
The British player admitted it was a difficult situation for the official, but thought his rival had "played the rules quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte viewed a video and determined Draper was guilty of interference, granting the rally to his opponent.
Broader Adoption
This technology aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. It has been in use at the American major since 2023 and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is becoming more common on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the ATP circuit plans to have the system in place at all of its tournaments.
Other Changes
A further change at Wimbledon this year will be the introduction of graphical cues on displays to support the verbal announcements from the ELC system.
This addresses instances where fans have occasionally been unsure whether a ball was in or out.
In other news, with precisely a century of days to go until the beginning of the Championships, the AELTC have also revealed an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
