Wimbledon Introduces Video Replay Technology for the First Time.
Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in implementing video review technology.
Replay technology will be launched at Wimbledon for the 2025 edition.
Athletes will gain the right to question particular rulings made by the official, mirroring the system already in place at both the American Grand Slam and the Aussie major.
This technology is slated for use on Centre Court and the number one court throughout the tournament and on the other four show courts when they are hosting singles contests.
This step comes just a season following the AELTC rolled out ELC, which effectively ended the centuries-old tradition of line judges.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players will not be permitted to dispute the call of the ELC system, but are allowed to ask for the official to re-examine specific situations, such as:
- Whether a ball has double-bounced.
- If a ball made contact with an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Possible hindrance at the conclusion of a rally.
Notably, there will be an unlimited number on the amount of challenges a player can request.
A Recent Example
An illustrative case took place in a recent tournament last week, where Daniil Medvedev initiated the video challenge against Jack Draper.
The British player admitted it was a tough situation for the umpire, but believed his rival had "used the regulations effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a replay and ruled Draper was guilty of hindrance, awarding the point to Medvedev.
Growing Trend
Video reviews are not exclusive to Grand Slams. The system has been in use at the American major for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the men's ATP Tour will have video reviews in place at all of its events.
Additional Innovations
Another innovation at Wimbledon this year will be the introduction of visual indicators on displays to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This solves instances where fans have sometimes been unsure if a shot was in or out.
Finally, with exactly a century of days to go until the start of the tournament, the AELTC have further revealed an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
