Wimbledon Introduces Video Replay System for the First Time.
Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in implementing video review technology.
Video review technology are set to arrive at The Championships this year.
Players are granted the right to contest specific rulings from the chair umpire, following the practice already in place at each of the US Open and the Aussie major.
This innovation will be accessible on the main stadium and the number one court throughout the Championships and on the remaining featured courts when they are hosting singles contests.
This development follows just a season following the AELTC implemented ELC, which brought an end to the 147-year role of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Players cannot to challenge the call of the ELC system, but are allowed to request the umpire to review other situations, such as:
- If a ball has double-bounced.
- Whether a ball touched an opponent's racquet or person on the way past.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a rally.
Importantly, there is no cap on the number of challenges a player can request.
Practical Application
An illustrative example took place in Indian Wells 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 rival had "used the regulations effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a video and determined Draper was responsible for interference, awarding the point to his opponent.
Broader Adoption
Video reviews are not new for Grand Slams. It has been in use at the American major for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Additionally, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by next season the ATP circuit plans to have video reviews implemented at all of its tournaments.
Other Changes
Another innovation at The Championships 2025 involves the introduction of visual indicators on scoreboards to support the audio calls from the ELC system.
This solves instances where the crowd have occasionally been uncertain whether a shot was out or in.
In other news, with precisely a century of days to go until the start of the tournament, organizers have further announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
