In a groundbreaking move, Wimbledon has announced that it will be replacing line judges with automated electronic line calling (ELC) starting in 2025. This decision marks the end of a 147-year tradition at the prestigious All England Club (AELTC).
The AELTC stated on Wednesday that the transition to Live ELC was based on the successful testing conducted during this year’s Championships. The new system builds on the existing ball tracking and line calling technology that has been in place for many years at Wimbledon.
The shift to ELC comes after Wimbledon recognized the greater efficiency of this technology compared to the current system, which relies on line judges supported by a challenge system using Hawk-Eye technology. ELC, powered by artificial intelligence, has gained popularity at tennis tournaments since its introduction at the 2020 U.S. Open. Initially implemented to reduce the number of people on court during the Covid-19 pandemic, ELC has proven to be a more accurate and efficient method of calling lines.
ELC is already in use at the U.S. Open and Australian Open, and starting next year, it will be implemented at all ATP events on the main tour. Players generally prefer ELC as it allows them to rely on the technology for line calls, eliminating the need for them to be involved in officiating their matches.
One notable example of the impact of ELC is Andy Murray’s experience at last year’s Wimbledon. A call that went against him in a crucial moment of his match against Stefanos Tsitsipas could have been corrected with ELC, potentially changing the outcome of the match in his favor.
Despite the long-standing tradition of using line judges at Wimbledon, the AELTC ultimately decided that ELC would provide a superior officiating experience. CEO Sally Bolton emphasized that the introduction of Live Electronic Line Calling was the result of careful consideration and consultation, aiming to maximize accuracy in officiating while maintaining the same conditions as other tour events.
In addition to the introduction of ELC, Wimbledon announced another significant change for next year. The women’s and men’s finals will now take place at 4 p.m. instead of 2 p.m., with a doubles final preceding each final at 1 p.m. This adjustment aims to provide increased certainty for doubles players and enhance the overall fan experience leading up to the singles finals.
The decision to embrace ELC and adjust the finals schedule reflects Wimbledon’s commitment to balancing tradition and innovation in the sport of tennis. As the tournament prepares for a new era of line calling technology, fans and players alike can expect a more efficient and accurate officiating experience at the historic All England Club.
(Top photo: Sebastien Bozon / AFP via Getty Images)
