Wimbledon will follow the American and Aussie Opens in implementing video review technology.
Replay systems will make its debut at Wimbledon for the 2025 edition.
Athletes will gain the ability to challenge certain rulings from the chair umpire, mirroring the system currently in place at each of the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
This technology will be accessible on Centre Court and Court One throughout the Championships and on the other four featured courts when they are staging singles contests.
This development follows just a year after the AELTC rolled out electronic line calling, which terminated the longstanding tradition of line officials.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players will not be permitted to dispute the call of the ELC system, but they can request the umpire to re-examine other decisions, including:
- Whether a tennis ball has double-bounced.
- If a ball touched an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Possible hindrance end of a point.
Importantly, there is an unlimited number on the number of reviews a competitor can ask for.
Case in Point
An illustrative example took place in a recent tournament last week, where Daniil Medvedev initiated the video challenge against Jack Draper.
The British player conceded it was a tough situation for the official, but believed his opponent had "played the rules effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte viewed a replay and determined the player was guilty of hindrance, granting the point to Medvedev.
Broader Adoption
This technology aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. The system has been in use at the American major since 2023 and the Aussie Open this year.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the ATP circuit plans to have video reviews in place at all of its tournaments.
Further Updates
Another innovation at The Championships this year will be the introduction of visual indicators on scoreboards to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This solves instances where fans have occasionally been unsure if a ball was out or in.
Finally, with exactly 100 days to go until the start of the tournament, organizers have also announced an expansion in daily capacity at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
