Wimbledon Adopts Video Review Technology for the First Time.
The tournament joins the US and Australian Opens in utilizing video review technology.
Video review systems are set to arrive at Wimbledon this year.
Competitors will gain the option to contest specific rulings made by the official, mirroring the system already in use at both the US Open and the Aussie major.
This technology is slated for use on Centre Court and Court One throughout the tournament and on the other four show courts when they are staging singles matches.
This step comes just a year after the AELTC implemented electronic line calling, which terminated the 147-year role of line officials.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players will not be permitted to challenge the accuracy of the ELC system, but are allowed to request the official to review specific decisions, including:
- Whether a ball has bounced twice.
- If a shot touched an rival's racket or body during play.
- Possible hindrance at the conclusion of a rally.
Importantly, there is an unlimited number on the amount of challenges a player can ask for.
Practical Application
A recent example occurred in Indian Wells recently, where a top player used the video challenge against Jack Draper.
Draper conceded it was a tough situation for the official, but thought his rival had "used the regulations quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a replay and ruled Draper was guilty of hindrance, awarding the point to Medvedev.
Growing Trend
This technology aren't new for Grand Slams. It has been in use at the US Open for two years and the Aussie Open this year.
Additionally, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the men's ATP Tour will have video reviews in place at all of its tournaments.
Additional Innovations
A further change at Wimbledon this year involves the introduction of visual indicators on scoreboards to support the audio calls from the ELC system.
This solves situations where the crowd have sometimes been uncertain whether a ball was out or in.
Finally, with precisely a century of days to go until the start of the Championships, the AELTC have further revealed an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
