Wimbledon Embraces Video Review System for the First Time.
Wimbledon will follow the US and Aussie Opens in implementing replay technology.
Replay systems are set to arrive at Wimbledon in the upcoming tournament.
Competitors will gain the ability to question specific calls from the official, following the practice already in place at both the US Open and the Aussie major.
This technology will be accessible on Centre Court and the number one court for the duration of the tournament and on the other four featured courts when they are staging singles matches.
This move comes just a year after the AELTC implemented electronic line calling, which brought an end to the 147-year role of line judges.
Scope of Challenges
Players will not be permitted to challenge the call of the electronic line calling, but they can request the umpire to re-examine other situations, including:
- If a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- Whether a ball made contact with an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a point.
Notably, there will be no limit on the number of reviews a competitor can request.
Case in Point
A recent incident occurred in a recent tournament last week, where a top player used the review system against his opponent.
The British player admitted it was a difficult call for the umpire, but believed his opponent had "used the regulations effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a replay and ruled the player was responsible for hindrance, awarding the rally to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
Video reviews are not exclusive to major tournaments. It has been in use at the American major for two years and the Aussie Open since 2025.
Furthermore, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour plans to have the system in place at every one of its tournaments.
Further Updates
Another innovation at The Championships 2025 will be the introduction of graphical cues on scoreboards to support the audio calls from the electronic line calling system.
This solves instances where fans have sometimes been uncertain whether a ball was out or in.
Finally, with precisely 100 days remaining until the beginning of the Championships, organizers have also revealed an increase in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in Roehampton.
