Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in implementing video review technology.
Video review systems will be launched at The Championships in the upcoming tournament.
Players are granted the ability to contest specific rulings from the official, following the system currently in operation at both the US Open and the Australian Open.
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 show courts when they are staging singles contests.
This move follows just a year after the All England Club implemented electronic line calling, which effectively ended the longstanding tradition of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Players cannot to challenge the accuracy of the electronic line calling, but they can ask for the official to re-examine other decisions, including:
- If a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- Whether a ball made contact with an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Possible interference end of a rally.
Importantly, there will be no limit on the number of reviews a player can ask for.
Case in Point
A recent case occurred in a recent tournament recently, where a top player used the review system against Jack Draper.
Draper conceded it was a difficult situation for the umpire, but thought his rival had "used the regulations quite well."
The umpire viewed a replay and determined the player was guilty of hindrance, granting the rally to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
This technology aren't exclusive to major tournaments. It was adopted at the US Open for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Additionally, it is becoming more common on the women’s WTA Tour, and by the coming year the ATP circuit plans to have the system implemented at every one of its events.
Further Updates
A further change at Wimbledon 2025 involves the addition of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the electronic line calling system.
This solves situations where spectators have occasionally been uncertain whether a ball was in or out.
Finally, with exactly 100 days remaining until the beginning of the Championships, the AELTC have further announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
