Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing replay technology.
Video review systems will make its debut at Wimbledon this year.
Competitors will gain the right to question specific rulings made by the chair umpire, following the system currently in operation at both the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
This technology will be operational on Centre Court and Court One throughout the tournament and on the remaining featured courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This development comes just a season following the AELTC rolled out ELC, which brought an end to the longstanding role of line judges.
Reviewable Decisions
Players will not be permitted to challenge the accuracy of the electronic line calling, but are allowed to request the official to re-examine other situations, such as:
- If a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- If a shot made contact with an rival's racket or body on the way past.
- Possible hindrance end of a rally.
Importantly, there is an unlimited number on the amount of reviews a player can initiate.
A Recent Example
An illustrative incident took place in a recent tournament last week, where a top player used the review system against his opponent.
The British player conceded it was a difficult situation for the official, but believed his rival had "played the rules effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a video and determined the player was guilty of interference, granting the point to his opponent.
Growing Trend
Video reviews are not exclusive to major tournaments. 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 ATP circuit plans to have the system implemented at all of its tournaments.
Additional Innovations
Another change at The Championships 2025 involves the introduction of graphical cues on scoreboards to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This solves situations where fans have occasionally been uncertain if a shot was out or in.
Finally, with precisely 100 days remaining until the start of the Championships, the AELTC have also announced an increase in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
