Wimbledon will follow the US and Australian Opens in implementing video review systems.
Video review systems will be launched at Wimbledon for the 2025 edition.
Competitors are granted the right to challenge specific decisions made by the chair umpire, mirroring the system currently in use at both the American Grand Slam and the Aussie major.
This technology is slated for use on the main stadium and Court One for the duration of the Championships and on the remaining show courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This move comes just a season following the AELTC implemented electronic line calling, which brought an end to the longstanding tradition of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors will not be permitted to challenge the call of the ELC system, but they can request the official to re-examine specific decisions, including:
- Whether a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- Whether a shot touched an rival's racket or person during play.
- Possible interference at the conclusion of a rally.
Notably, there will be an unlimited number on the amount of challenges a player can initiate.
A Recent Example
A recent example took place in a recent tournament recently, where a top player used the video challenge against his opponent.
Draper conceded it was a difficult situation for the umpire, but believed his opponent had "played the rules quite well."
The umpire watched a replay and determined Draper was responsible for hindrance, awarding the rally to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
This technology aren't new for major tournaments. It has been in use at the US Open since 2023 and the Aussie Open this year.
Additionally, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by next season the men's ATP Tour will have the system in place at all of its events.
Other Changes
Another change at Wimbledon this year involves the introduction of visual indicators on scoreboards to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This addresses instances where fans have occasionally been unsure if a ball was in or out.
Finally, with precisely 100 days to go until the start of the tournament, the AELTC have further announced an increase in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
