Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review technology.
Replay systems will make its debut at The Championships for the 2025 edition.
Players will gain the option to contest certain calls from the chair umpire, following the practice currently in operation at each of the US Open and the Australian Open.
The new system is slated for use on Centre Court and the number one court throughout the Championships and on the other four featured courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This development comes just a season following the AELTC introduced ELC, which effectively ended the 147-year role of line officials.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players will not be permitted to dispute the accuracy of the electronic line calling, but they can ask for the umpire to review specific situations, such as:
- If a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- Whether a shot made contact with an rival's racket or person on the way past.
- Possible hindrance at the conclusion of a rally.
Importantly, there is an unlimited number on the amount of challenges a competitor can initiate.
Case in Point
A recent example occurred in Indian Wells recently, where a top player initiated 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 viewed a replay and ruled the player was guilty of interference, awarding the rally to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
Video reviews aren't exclusive to major tournaments. It was adopted at the American major for two years and the Aussie Open this year.
Additionally, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by next season the ATP circuit plans to have the system in place at all of its events.
Additional Innovations
Another innovation at The Championships this year will be the introduction of graphical cues on displays to complement the verbal announcements from the ELC system.
This solves situations where the crowd have sometimes been unsure if a ball was in or out.
In other news, with precisely a century of days remaining until the beginning of the tournament, the AELTC have also revealed an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
