Wimbledon will follow the US and Aussie Opens in utilizing video review systems.
Video review technology will be launched at The Championships in the upcoming tournament.
Athletes are granted the ability to question particular decisions from the official, mirroring the protocol currently in operation at both the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
This technology will be accessible on the main stadium and the number one court throughout the tournament and on the remaining featured courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This step follows just a season following the All England Club introduced electronic line calling, which brought an end to the centuries-old tradition of line officials.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Competitors will not be permitted to challenge the call of the ELC system, but they can request the umpire to re-examine other decisions, such as:
- If a ball has bounced twice.
- Whether a shot made contact with an opponent's racquet or body during play.
- Possible hindrance end of a rally.
Notably, there will be no limit on the amount of challenges a player can ask for.
Practical Application
A recent case took place in Indian Wells recently, where Daniil Medvedev initiated the video challenge against his opponent.
The British player admitted it was a tough situation for the umpire, but believed his opponent had "used the regulations effectively."
The umpire viewed a replay and ruled the player was responsible for interference, granting the point to Medvedev.
Growing Trend
This technology aren't new for Grand Slams. It was adopted at the US Open for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour plans to have the system implemented at every one of its events.
Other Changes
Another change at Wimbledon this year will be the addition of visual indicators on displays to support the verbal announcements from the ELC system.
This solves instances where fans have occasionally been unsure if a ball was out or in.
Finally, with precisely a century of days remaining until the start of the Championships, the AELTC have further announced an increase in daily capacity at the qualifying competition in Roehampton.
