End of an era as Wimbledon switches to electronic line calling from 2025
The move means the French Open is the only one of the four Grand Slams still using line judges
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Wimbledon will use electronic line calling from 2025, ending the long tradition of using linesmen and women to call lines at the Championships.
In a statement on Wednesday, the All England Club said the electronic line calling will also be used at the qualifying events, which will again be held off-site, at nearby Roehampton, west London.
The move means the French Open is the only one of the four Grand Slams still to use humans as line judges.
“The decision to introduce Live Electronic Line Calling at The Championships was made following a significant period of consideration and consultation,” Sally Bolton, the CEO of the All England Club, said.
“Having reviewed the results of the testing undertaken at The Championships this year, we consider the technology to be sufficiently robust and the time is right to take this important step in seeking maximum accuracy in our officiating. For the players, it will offer them the same conditions they have played under at a number of other events on tour.
“We take our responsibility to balance tradition and innovation at Wimbledon very seriously. Line umpires have played a central role in our officiating set-up at The Championships for many decades and we recognise their valuable contribution and thank them for their commitment and service.”
Electronic line calling is set to be used across all courts at all ATP Tour events from 2025.
singles Finals PUSHED BACK TO 4PM
In another announcement, Wimbledon said it would be rejigging its finals schedule.
The singles finals will be moved back from their traditional 2pm slot to a 4pm start, following on from the men’s and women’s doubles finals, which will begin at 1pm on both the second Saturday and Sunday. In the past, the doubles finals have been played after the singles finals.
“The doubles players competing in the finals will have increased certainty over their schedule and fans will enjoy each day’s play as it builds towards the crescendo of the ladies’ and gentlemen’s singles finals, with our champions being crowned in front of the largest possible worldwide audience.”
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