09-07-2025
Explained: The Electronic Line-Calling Error That Halted a Wimbledon QuarterFinal
A glitch in Wimbledon's electronic line-calling system during Taylor Fritz's quarterfinal led to a mid-rally fault call, reigniting debate over replacing human line judges with technology.
Here's all you need to know:
How did the electronic line-calling system malfunction during the Wimbledon quarterfinal match between Taylor Fritz and Karen Khachanov?
The electronic line-calling (ELC) system, also known as Hawk-Eye Live, malfunctioned because a ball boy was still on the court when Taylor Fritz began his serve. This prevented the system from recognising that the point had started, leading it to erroneously call a 'fault' mid-rally when Fritz hit the ball outside his serving area. The umpire had to suspend play and replay the point.
What was the official explanation for the malfunction provided by the All England Club?
A spokesperson for the All England Club stated that the player's service motion began while the Ball Boy or Girl (BBG) was still crossing the net, causing the system not to recognise the start of the point. Consequently, the chair umpire instructed that the point be replayed.
How did the players react to the electronic line-calling system's malfunction and its use in general?
Karen Khachanov, the Russian player who lost the match, expressed a preference for traditional human line judges, calling the reliance on machines 'scary.' He noted questionable calls and the system's mid-rally error. In contrast, Taylor Fritz, who advanced to the semi-finals, supported the technology, stating that despite occasional issues, it is better than human umpires. He appreciates not having to challenge calls or argue, finding it a more efficient system.
Has Wimbledon's electronic line-calling system experienced previous issues?
Yes, this incident was the second time the system suffered a major error. Previously, it missed three calls during a fourth-round match after it was accidentally turned off for over six minutes during British star Sonay Kartal's match. Wimbledon officials attributed both incidents to 'human error' and had upgraded the system after the first to prevent it from being turned off again.
Who created the electronic line-calling system used at Wimbledon, and when was it more widely adopted?
The electronic line-calling (ELC) system, referred to as Hawk-Eye Live at Wimbledon, was developed by Hawk-Eye, the same company behind the original challenge system introduced at Wimbledon in 2007. It was first trialled at the ATP Next Gen Finals in Milan in 2018 and was adopted more widely during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.
How does the Hawk-Eye Live system function?
The Hawk-Eye Live system uses 18 cameras positioned around the court to track the ball's trajectory. A computer processes the ball's location in real time. A video operator oversees the technology off-court, and automated calls of 'out' and 'fault' are triggered within a tenth of a second of the ball landing, broadcast through courtside speakers. At Wimbledon, these calls are voiced by All England Club staff, with different courts using different voices to avoid confusion.
What significant change did the introduction of this technology bring to Wimbledon's long-standing traditions?
The implementation of the electronic line-calling system marked a significant departure from 147 years of human line judging. Previously, Wimbledon employed around 300 line judges annually, with nine on court at any one time, performing their roles for the honour of officiating at the prestigious event.
Have other players also expressed concerns about the accuracy of the new system?
Yes, in addition to Karen Khachanov, leading British players Jack Draper and Emma Raducanu have also raised concerns over the accuracy of the electronic line-calling system, despite its widespread use across other tournaments.
