The tournament joins the US and Australian Opens in utilizing video review systems.
Video review systems will make its debut at The Championships this year.
Competitors are granted the option to challenge particular decisions from the chair umpire, echoing the practice currently in use 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 remaining featured courts when they are hosting singles matches.
This development comes just a season following the AELTC implemented electronic line calling, which effectively ended the longstanding role of line officials.
Scope of Challenges
Competitors will not be permitted to challenge the accuracy of the ELC system, but are allowed to ask for the official to review other decisions, such as:
- If a ball has bounced twice.
- If a shot made contact with an rival's racket or body during play.
- Potential interference end of a point.
Importantly, there will be an unlimited number on the number of reviews a competitor can ask for.
A Recent Example
An illustrative incident took place in Indian Wells last week, where a top player initiated the video challenge against Jack Draper.
Draper admitted it was a difficult call for the umpire, but believed his rival had "played the rules effectively."
Official Aurelie Tourte watched a replay and ruled Draper was responsible for interference, granting the point to his opponent.
Wider Implementation
This technology aren't exclusive to Grand Slams. It has been in use at the American major for two years and the Australian Open this year.
Furthermore, it is becoming more common on the WTA circuit, and by next season the men's ATP Tour plans to have video reviews implemented at every one of its tournaments.
Other Changes
A further change at The Championships 2025 involves the introduction of visual indicators on displays to complement the audio calls from the ELC system.
This solves situations where fans have occasionally been unsure whether a ball was out or in.
Finally, with precisely a century of days to go until the beginning of the tournament, organizers have also announced an expansion in daily capacity at the qualifying competition in the qualifying venue.
