Starting in 2025, Wimbledon will replace its traditional line judges with an electronic line-calling system, marking a significant shift after 147 years. The All England Club announced the change, highlighting the Hawk Eye Live Electronic Line Calling technology that will be used across all courts, including qualifying rounds.
Electronic line calling, first tested in 2017 at the ATP Next Gen Finals, gained wider acceptance during the pandemic. With both the Australian Open and US Open already using similar systems, Wimbledon’s decision aligns with this growing trend. Chief Executive Sally Bolton explained that after extensive testing, they believe the technology is ready to deliver greater accuracy and consistency for players.
While this move is welcomed by many players who appreciate the precision, it may disappoint traditionalists who cherish the unique role of line judges at Wimbledon. This shift will also end the Hawk Eye challenge feature, where players could request video reviews—one of the memorable aspects of tennis, especially thanks to former champions like John McEnroe.
However, chair umpires will remain a fixture on court, overseeing matches in this new era of digital officiating. Wimbledon’s embrace of technology is set to reshape the iconic tournament, merging tradition with modern advancements in sports.
