Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in implementing video review systems.
Video review systems will make its debut at Wimbledon in the upcoming tournament.
Competitors will gain the ability to challenge particular rulings from the chair umpire, mirroring the practice already in use at both the US Open and the Australian Open.
This innovation will be operational on the main stadium 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 step arrives only a year after the AELTC implemented ELC, which brought an end to the centuries-old tradition of line judges.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players will not be permitted to challenge the accuracy of the electronic line calling, but are allowed to ask for the umpire to re-examine other situations, including:
- If a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- Whether a ball touched an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Potential hindrance end of a point.
Importantly, there is an unlimited number on the number of reviews a player can ask for.
Case in Point
An illustrative case took place in Indian Wells recently, where Daniil Medvedev initiated the video challenge against Jack Draper.
The British player admitted it was a tough situation for the umpire, but believed his opponent had "played the rules effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte viewed a replay and determined Draper was responsible for interference, awarding the point to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
Video reviews aren't exclusive to major tournaments. The system was adopted at the American major for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour will have the system in place at every one of its tournaments.
Further Updates
A further change at Wimbledon this year will be the introduction of graphical cues on scoreboards to support the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This solves situations where fans have sometimes been uncertain whether a ball was out or in.
Finally, with precisely a century of days remaining until the start of the Championships, organizers have also announced an increase in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
