Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review technology.
Replay technology will be launched at Wimbledon in the upcoming tournament.
Players are granted the option to challenge specific rulings from the chair umpire, following the protocol already in use at each of the US Open and the Australian Open.
This innovation will be accessible on the main stadium and Court One for the duration of the Championships and on the other four show courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This development follows just a year after the AELTC introduced ELC, which brought an end to the 147-year tradition of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Players cannot to challenge the call of the ELC system, but are allowed to ask for the official to re-examine specific decisions, including:
- Whether a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- Whether a ball touched an opponent's racquet or body on the way past.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a point.
Notably, there is an unlimited number on the number of challenges a player can initiate.
A Recent Example
A recent example occurred in Indian Wells 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 believed his rival had "played the rules effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a video and determined Draper was responsible for interference, granting the point to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
Video reviews are not new for Grand Slams. It has been in use at the American major for two years and the Australian Open since 2025.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour plans to have the system implemented at every one of its tournaments.
Further Updates
Another innovation at Wimbledon this year involves the addition of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the electronic line calling system.
This addresses instances where fans have occasionally been unsure whether a shot was out or in.
Finally, with exactly a century of days remaining until the beginning of the Championships, organizers have also announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
