Wimbledon Embraces Video Challenge System for the First Time.
The tournament joins the American and Aussie Opens in utilizing replay systems.
Video review technology will be launched at Wimbledon for the 2025 edition.
Competitors are granted the ability to challenge certain decisions made by the chair umpire, mirroring the practice currently in place at both the US Open and the Aussie major.
This technology will be accessible on Centre Court and Court One for the duration of the tournament and on the remaining featured courts when they are hosting singles contests.
This step comes just a season following the All England Club introduced ELC, which terminated the 147-year role of line officials.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players cannot to challenge the accuracy of the ELC system, but they can ask for the official to review specific decisions, including:
- If a ball has bounced twice.
- If a ball made contact with an opponent's racquet or person during play.
- Possible hindrance at the conclusion of a rally.
Notably, there will be no limit on the amount of reviews a competitor can initiate.
Practical Application
A recent incident took place in Indian Wells last week, where Daniil Medvedev used the video challenge against his opponent.
The British player conceded it was a tough call for the official, but believed his rival had "used the regulations quite well."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a video and determined Draper was responsible for hindrance, granting the point to Medvedev.
Wider Implementation
This technology aren't exclusive to major tournaments. It was adopted at the US Open for two years and the Aussie Open since 2025.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by next season the men's ATP Tour plans to have the system implemented at every one of its events.
Other Changes
Another innovation at The Championships this year involves the introduction of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the ELC system.
This addresses instances where fans have sometimes been uncertain whether a shot was in or out.
Finally, with precisely a century of days remaining until the beginning of the Championships, organizers have further announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
