Wimbledon to offer assistance to released officials after replacing them with electronic line calling

Following the announcement that line judges will be replaced by electronic line calling technology at Wimbledon beginning 2025, it has been revealed that tournament organizers will still find a way for the axed officials to remain involved with the annual event.

The All England Club announced it would use artificial intelligence to call balls out at all Wimbledon main draw and qualifying events starting next year, rather than relying on human line judges. However, the Lawn Tennis Association stated it would look for ways to keep the match officials in the sport.

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Wimbledon to join other Grand Slam events in using electronic line calling

With the Australian Open and the US Open already using electronic line calling, Wimbledon became the final Grand Slam tournament to adopt this system after the French Open announced it's plans earlier this year to switch to electronic line calling next year. Therefore, this implies line judges in Britain will no longer be able to work two of the biggest tournaments in the country, with both Wimbledon and the Queen's ATP 500 event switching to electronic line calling next year.

However, there are still roles available for trained lines judges, including those of match assistants and umpire assistants. The Lawn Tennis Association confirmed they are working with the Association of British Tennis Officials to support match officials.

"We understand the reasons behind the AELTC’s decision to introduce live electronic line-calling and we recognize the ongoing changes to officiating around the world,” said an LTA representative. "With this in mind we are already working with ABTO to understand the impact on the pathway for British officials, and develop a new joint strategy with them that will ensure officials can be retained within the sport, new officials can be recruited and the officiating community will be supported through the changes.”

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