Wimbledon Embraces Video Challenge System for the First Time.
The tournament joins the US and Australian Opens in implementing video review technology.
Replay systems are set to arrive at Wimbledon this year.
Players will gain the option to question particular decisions from the official, mirroring the practice already in use at both the US Open and the Australian Open.
The new system is slated for use on Centre Court and Court One for the duration of the Championships and on the other four show courts when they are hosting singles contests.
This move follows just a season following the All England Club rolled out ELC, which terminated the 147-year role of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Players cannot to dispute the accuracy of the ELC system, but are allowed to request the umpire to review specific decisions, including:
- Whether a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- If a ball touched an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Possible hindrance at the conclusion of a rally.
Importantly, there will be no limit on the number of challenges a player can request.
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 situation for the umpire, but believed his opponent had "played the rules effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte viewed a replay and determined the player was responsible for interference, granting the rally to his opponent.
Broader Adoption
This technology are not exclusive to major tournaments. It was adopted at the American major for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by next season the ATP circuit will have the system implemented at all of its events.
Other Changes
A further innovation at The Championships this year involves the addition of visual indicators on displays to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This solves instances where spectators have occasionally been unsure whether a ball was out or in.
In other news, with precisely a century of days remaining until the start of the tournament, organizers have also announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.