Wimbledon Embraces Technology: Video Review and Enhanced Line Calling on the Horizon
This year’s Wimbledon Championships are set to usher in a significant technological advancement with the introduction of video review, commonly referred to as ‘VAR’-style technology. The esteemed All England Club has confirmed that this new system will be operational on the tournament’s six primary show courts, a prestigious list that includes the iconic Centre Court and the renowned No. 1 Court.
The integration of video reviews at Wimbledon follows a growing trend across professional tennis. This technology was rolled out on the ATP Tour last year and has already become a fixture at other Grand Slam events, with the US Open adopting it in 2023 and the Australian Open following suit in 2025. The core function of this system is to empower players with the ability to challenge umpire decisions that they believe are incorrect. These challenges can pertain to a range of on-court incidents, such as whether a ball has bounced twice before being struck, or if a player has made contact with the net during play.
Beyond these more common scenarios, video review can also be applied to ‘hindrance’ calls. This aspect of the technology was highlighted last week at the Indian Wells tournament, where a controversial decision involving Jack Draper led to debate. Draper was penalised for allegedly raising his arms during a point, a move deemed to have distracted his opponent, Daniil Medvedev, at a critical juncture in the second set. The availability of video review at Wimbledon will undoubtedly provide a clearer and more objective mechanism for adjudicating such nuanced situations.
The introduction of video reviews marks another significant step in Wimbledon’s embrace of modern technology, coming directly after the decision last year to replace on-court line judges with an electronic line-calling system. While this electronic system aims for greater accuracy, it has not been without its teething problems. A notable instance occurred during a fourth-round match between Sonay Kartal and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, where a system malfunction meant an incorrect call was not flagged, leading to a potentially unfair outcome.
In response to feedback and to further enhance the spectator experience, Wimbledon has also announced plans to introduce visual indicators designed to complement the electronic line-calling system. This move comes after some fans expressed difficulty in discerning whether a ball had landed in or out of bounds without the presence of traditional line judges. These new visual cues are expected to provide greater clarity for those watching from the stands, ensuring that the accuracy of the electronic system is readily apparent to everyone.
The ongoing evolution of technology within elite tennis, exemplified by Wimbledon’s latest announcements, reflects a broader commitment to fairness, accuracy, and an enhanced viewing experience. As the Championships approach, the implementation of video review and improved visual aids for line calls promises to add another layer of modern sophistication to the timeless traditions of the grass-court Grand Slam. Players and fans alike will be watching closely to see how these new technological tools shape the narrative of this year’s prestigious tournament.
