Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in employing video review technology.
Video review systems will be launched at Wimbledon for the 2025 edition.
Competitors will gain the ability to challenge certain rulings from the chair umpire, following the system already in operation at both the US Open and the Aussie major.
The new system will be operational on the main stadium and Court One throughout the Championships and on the other four featured courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This move follows just a season following the AELTC introduced electronic line calling, which terminated the 147-year role of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors will not be permitted to challenge the call of the ELC system, but are allowed to ask for the umpire to re-examine other decisions, including:
- If a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- Whether a shot made contact with an opponent's racquet or body on the way past.
- Potential interference end of a rally.
Notably, there will be no limit on the amount of reviews a player can ask for.
Practical Application
A recent example occurred in a recent tournament recently, where a top player initiated the review system against his opponent.
The British player conceded it was a tough situation for the umpire, but thought his opponent had "used the regulations effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a video and ruled Draper was guilty of interference, granting the point to Medvedev.
Growing Trend
This technology are not exclusive to Grand Slams. The system has been in use at the US Open 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 video reviews implemented at all of its events.
Further Updates
A further innovation at Wimbledon this year involves the introduction of visual indicators on displays to support the audio calls from the ELC system.
This addresses instances where fans have sometimes been unsure if a ball was in or out.
Finally, with precisely 100 days remaining until the start of the tournament, organizers have also revealed an increase in daily capacity at the qualifying competition in Roehampton.
