Wimbledon Embraces Video Replay System for the First Time.
The tournament joins the US and Aussie Opens in implementing video review technology.
Video review systems are set to arrive at The Championships in the upcoming tournament.
Competitors are granted the ability to question certain calls from the official, mirroring the practice already in operation at both the US Open and the Australian Open.
This technology is slated for use on Centre Court and the number one court for the duration of the Championships and on the other four featured courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This development arrives only a season following the AELTC introduced electronic line calling, which terminated the centuries-old role of line officials.
Reviewable Decisions
Competitors will not be permitted to challenge the call of the electronic line calling, but are allowed to ask for the official to review specific situations, including:
- If a ball has double-bounced.
- If a ball touched an opponent's racquet or body on the way past.
- Possible hindrance end of a rally.
Importantly, there is no cap on the number of reviews a player can ask for.
Practical Application
A recent incident took place in a recent tournament recently, where a top player used the review system against his opponent.
The British player admitted it was a difficult call for the umpire, but thought his opponent had "used the regulations quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a replay and ruled Draper was guilty of interference, awarding the point to Medvedev.
Growing Trend
This technology are not new for 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 women’s WTA Tour, and by the coming year the ATP circuit will have video reviews in place at every one of its tournaments.
Further Updates
A further change at The Championships this year involves the introduction of graphical cues on scoreboards to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This addresses instances where spectators have occasionally been unsure if a shot was in or out.
Finally, with exactly 100 days remaining until the start of the Championships, the AELTC have further revealed an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifiers in the qualifying venue.
