Wimbledon Adopts Video Challenge System for the First Time.
Wimbledon will follow the US and Aussie Opens in utilizing replay technology.
Replay systems will be launched at Wimbledon for the 2025 edition.
Competitors will gain the right to contest particular rulings made by the chair umpire, following the protocol already in use at both the US Open and the Aussie major.
The new system will be operational on Centre Court and Court One for the duration of the tournament and on the other four featured courts when they are hosting singles contests.
This move follows just a year after the All England Club implemented electronic line calling, which brought an end to the longstanding role of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors cannot to challenge the call of the ELC system, but they can ask for the umpire to re-examine other situations, such as:
- If a tennis ball has bounced twice.
- Whether a ball touched an rival's racket or person during play.
- Potential interference at the conclusion of a point.
Notably, there will be no limit on the amount of reviews a competitor can ask for.
Practical Application
A recent incident occurred in a recent tournament last week, where a top player initiated the review system against Jack Draper.
Draper conceded it was a difficult situation for the umpire, but believed his rival had "used the regulations effectively."
The umpire viewed a replay and determined Draper was guilty of interference, awarding the rally to his opponent.
Broader Adoption
Video reviews are not new for major tournaments. The system was adopted at the US Open for two years and the Australian Open since 2025.
Additionally, it is becoming more common on the women’s WTA Tour, and by next season the men's ATP Tour plans to have the system in place at every one of its events.
Additional Innovations
Another change at Wimbledon 2025 will be the introduction of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the ELC system.
This addresses situations where fans have occasionally been unsure whether a shot was out or in.
In other news, with exactly a century of days to go until the beginning of the tournament, organizers have also revealed an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifiers in Roehampton.