The tournament joins the American and Aussie Opens in implementing replay systems.
Video review technology are set to arrive at Wimbledon in the upcoming tournament.
Athletes will gain the right to challenge certain decisions from the official, mirroring the practice currently in use at both the US Open and the Aussie major.
This technology is slated for use on the main stadium and the number one court for the duration of the tournament and on the other four show courts when they are staging singles contests.
This step arrives only a season following the AELTC rolled out ELC, which effectively ended the 147-year role of line officials.
Reviewable Decisions
Players cannot to challenge the accuracy of the ELC system, but they can request the official to re-examine other decisions, such as:
- Whether a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- If a ball made contact with an opponent's racquet or person on the way past.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a point.
Importantly, there is no limit on the number of reviews a player can initiate.
Practical Application
A recent incident took place in Indian Wells recently, where a top player used the review system against his opponent.
The British player conceded it was a tough call for the umpire, but thought his opponent had "used the regulations quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte viewed a replay and ruled the player was responsible for interference, granting the rally to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
Video reviews aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. The system has been in use at the American major since 2023 and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the ATP circuit plans to have the system implemented at all of its tournaments.
Other Changes
Another change 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 the crowd have sometimes been unsure if a ball was in or out.
Finally, with precisely a century of days to go until the beginning of the Championships, organizers have also announced an increase in daily capacity at the qualifiers in Roehampton.
