Wimbledon will follow the US and Aussie Opens in implementing video review systems.
Video review systems will be launched at Wimbledon in the upcoming tournament.
Athletes are granted the option to question certain calls made by the official, following the system already in operation at both the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
This technology will be accessible on Centre Court and the number one court throughout the Championships and on the other four show courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This move comes just a year after the All England Club introduced ELC, which brought an end to the 147-year tradition of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Players cannot to challenge the accuracy of the ELC system, but they can ask for the official to review other situations, including:
- If a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- If a ball touched an rival's racket or body during play.
- Possible hindrance end of a rally.
Importantly, there will be an unlimited number on the number of challenges a player can request.
Case in Point
A recent incident occurred in Indian Wells last week, where a top player initiated the video challenge against Jack Draper.
The British player admitted it was a tough situation for the official, but believed his opponent had "played the rules quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a video and ruled the player was guilty of hindrance, awarding the point to his opponent.
Broader Adoption
Video reviews aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. The system has been in use at the US Open for two years and the Aussie Open this year.
Furthermore, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by the coming year the ATP circuit plans to 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 displays to complement the verbal announcements from the electronic line calling system.
This solves instances where spectators have sometimes been unsure if a shot was in or out.
Finally, with exactly 100 days to go until the beginning of the tournament, the AELTC have further announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
