Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review systems.
Video review systems are set to arrive at The Championships this year.
Players are granted the ability to contest specific decisions from the official, following the protocol currently in use at both the US Open and the Australian Open.
This technology will be operational on the main stadium and the number one court for the duration of the Championships and on the remaining show courts when they are staging singles matches.
This development arrives only a year after the All England Club introduced electronic line calling, which brought an end to the 147-year tradition of line judges.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Competitors cannot to challenge the call of the ELC system, but are allowed to ask for the official to re-examine specific decisions, such as:
- If a ball has bounced twice.
- If a shot touched an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a rally.
Importantly, there will be no limit on the amount of challenges a player can initiate.
Case in Point
An illustrative example took place in Indian Wells recently, where a top player used the review system against his opponent.
The British player admitted it was a difficult situation for the umpire, but believed his opponent had "used the regulations effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte viewed a replay and determined the player was responsible for hindrance, granting the point to his opponent.
Broader Adoption
Video reviews aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. It has been in use at the American major for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Additionally, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour will have the system implemented at all of its events.
Additional Innovations
Another innovation at The Championships 2025 will be the introduction of visual indicators on displays to support the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This addresses instances where spectators have sometimes been uncertain whether a shot was out or in.
In other news, with exactly 100 days to go until the beginning of the tournament, the AELTC have also announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in Roehampton.
