The tournament joins the US and Aussie Opens in implementing video review technology.
Replay technology will be launched at Wimbledon this year.
Athletes will gain the right to contest particular rulings made by the chair umpire, following the protocol currently in place at each of the American Grand Slam and the Australian Open.
This innovation will be accessible on the main stadium and the number one court for the duration of the tournament and on the other four show courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This step arrives only a season following the AELTC introduced electronic line calling, which brought an end to the centuries-old tradition of line judges.
What Can Be Reviewed?
Players will not be permitted to challenge the accuracy of the ELC system, but are allowed to ask for the umpire to review specific decisions, including:
- If a ball has bounced twice.
- Whether a ball touched an rival's racket or body during play.
- Potential hindrance at the conclusion of a point.
Importantly, there is no cap on the number of reviews a competitor can initiate.
Case in Point
A recent example occurred in a recent tournament recently, where a top player used the review system against Jack Draper.
The British player admitted it was a difficult situation for the official, but believed his opponent had "used the regulations quite well."
The umpire viewed a replay and ruled Draper was responsible for interference, granting the rally to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
Video reviews are not exclusive to Grand Slams. It has been in use at the US Open for two years and the Aussie Open this year.
Furthermore, it is increasingly prevalent on the WTA circuit, and by next season the men's ATP Tour plans to have video reviews in place at every one of its tournaments.
Other Changes
Another change at The Championships this year will be the introduction of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the ELC system.
This solves situations where spectators have occasionally been uncertain whether a ball was out or in.
Finally, with precisely a century of days to go until the beginning of the Championships, organizers have further announced an expansion in daily attendance at the qualifying competition in Roehampton.
