Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in implementing video review technology.
Replay systems will make its debut at Wimbledon in the upcoming tournament.
Competitors are granted the ability to challenge specific rulings made by the chair umpire, mirroring the protocol currently in operation at each of the US Open and the Aussie major.
This innovation will be accessible on the main stadium and the number one court for the duration of the Championships and on the other four featured courts when they are staging singles matches.
This step follows just a season following the AELTC implemented ELC, which brought an end to the 147-year role of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors cannot to challenge the call of the ELC system, but they can request the umpire to review other decisions, such as:
- If a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- If a shot touched an opponent's racquet or person on the way past.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a point.
Notably, there will be no limit on the number of reviews a player can ask for.
Practical Application
A recent example occurred in Indian Wells last week, where Daniil Medvedev initiated the review system against Jack Draper.
Draper admitted it was a difficult call for the official, but believed his rival had "used the regulations quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a replay and determined Draper was guilty of interference, granting the rally to Medvedev.
Wider Implementation
This technology are not new for Grand Slams. The system was adopted at the US Open for two years and the Aussie Open since 2025.
Furthermore, it is becoming more common on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the ATP circuit plans to have the system implemented at every one of its tournaments.
Other Changes
Another change at Wimbledon this year will be the introduction of graphical cues on displays to complement the verbal announcements from the ELC system.
This addresses situations where fans have occasionally been uncertain whether a shot was in or out.
Finally, with precisely 100 days to go until the beginning of the tournament, the AELTC have also announced an increase in daily capacity at the qualifying competition in Roehampton.
