Wimbledon: Electronic Line Calling System Malfunctions During Quarterfinal Match

New Tech Causes Chaos in High-Stakes Tennis

LONDON (AP) – A frustrating malfunction with Wimbledon’s new electronic line calling system disrupted a key quarterfinal match between Taylor Fritz and Karen Khachanov on Tuesday, forcing a replay and highlighting the teething problems of the technology.

Key Takeaways:

• The malfunction occurred during the opening game of the fourth set.
• The system incorrectly identified Fritz's serve as a fault, leading to a stoppage of play.
• The point was replayed after the chair umpire, Louise Azemar-Engzell, directed the officials to do so.
• Taylor Fritz ultimately won the match, advancing to the semifinals with a 6-3, 6-4, 1-6, 7-6 (4) victory.
• This incident follows previous issues with the system, including a glaring mistake in a previous round.

The move to the electronic line calling system, replacing human line judges, was intended to improve accuracy and speed in calls. However, it has so far proven to be anything but seamless. The system’s interpretation of a serve, particularly when a ball boy or girl is still crossing the net, has caused confusion and forced replayed points. The Sunday incident involving Sonay Kartal demonstrated that even with the technology in place, human oversight and potential errors remain critical. Club officials attributed the initial issue to “human error”, noting that the system had been inadvertently deactivated for three points in Kartal’s match.

Despite the setbacks, the All England Club is committed to refining the system. With the tournament underway, further adjustments and improvements are expected as organizers work to ensure the electronic system operates flawlessly alongside the sport’s traditions.