Wimbledon will follow the US and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review technology.
Video review systems are set to arrive at The Championships for the 2025 edition.
Competitors are granted the right to challenge certain decisions from the chair umpire, echoing the system currently in use at both the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
This technology is slated for use on Centre Court and the number one court for the duration of the tournament and on the other four show courts when they are staging singles matches.
This move comes just a year after the AELTC implemented electronic line calling, which terminated the centuries-old tradition of line judges.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors will not be permitted to dispute the call of the ELC system, but they can request the official to review other decisions, including:
- If a ball has double-bounced.
- If a shot touched an rival's racket or body during play.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a point.
Notably, there will be no limit on the amount of reviews a competitor can initiate.
Case in Point
An illustrative example occurred in Indian Wells last week, where a top player used the review system against his opponent.
The British player conceded it was a difficult call for the official, but believed his rival had "played the rules effectively."
The umpire viewed a replay and ruled the player was guilty of interference, granting the rally to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
This technology are not new for Grand Slams. It was adopted at the American major since 2023 and the Australian Open this year.
Additionally, it is becoming more common on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the men's ATP Tour plans to have video reviews implemented at all of its tournaments.
Additional Innovations
Another change at Wimbledon this year will be the addition of visual indicators on scoreboards to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This addresses situations where fans have sometimes been uncertain if a ball was in or out.
Finally, with exactly 100 days remaining until the beginning of the Championships, organizers have further announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
