The Evolution of Line Calling at Wimbledon
The introduction of electronic line calling at this year’s Championships has sparked significant controversy, with many questioning the impact on the traditional essence of the game. The latest disruption occurred during Taylor Fritz’s match against Karen Khachanov, where an AI system mistakenly called a fault twice due to misinterpreting an in-play move as a service motion. This incident highlighted the growing concerns among players and former officials about the reliability of the technology.
Pauline Eyre, a former line judge who served at Wimbledon between 1988 and 2003, has voiced her concerns about the changes. She described the new role of human line judges as “glorified butlers,” emphasizing that their responsibilities have drastically diminished. Instead of making critical calls, they now assist with ball changes, accompany players to the toilet, and participate in sponsorship events. This shift has left many former line judges feeling disconnected from the sport they once loved.
Eyre pointed out that the new role lacks the skill and experience that were once essential for line judges. She recalls the days when being selected for Centre Court was a huge honor, requiring years of dedication and expertise. Now, she feels that the role has been reduced to a mere visual spectacle, with little regard for the professionalism that once defined it.
The transition to AI technology has also raised concerns about the cultural impact on Wimbledon. Eyre expressed sadness over the loss of the familiar scenes that once defined the tournament. She believes that the use of flashing signs instead of traditional hand motions has made the event look “naff” and less authentic. For her, the human element is crucial to the spirit of tennis, and the reliance on machines risks diminishing the sport’s charm.
Moreover, the potential for technical failures adds another layer of concern. Eyre noted that physical line judges are more attuned to the game, having been actively involved throughout the season. In contrast, the current system may lead to a lack of preparedness if the technology fails, as line judges may not be as sharp after a long period without active involvement.
Despite these challenges, Eyre acknowledges that the technology is likely to remain in place. However, she remains deeply concerned about the cost of this change. The loss of jobs for around 250-300 people and the reduction of skills for another 80 individuals has left a void that cannot easily be filled. She believes that the human connection is irreplaceable, citing the tragic injury of Bulgarian player Grigor Dimitrov during his last-16 clash with Jannik Sinner as a poignant example of the need for human oversight.
Eyre’s experiences as a line judge have inspired her to share her story through a stand-up show titled “Anyone for Tennis.” This performance, set to run at this year’s Edinburgh Fringe, offers a glimpse into the world of Wimbledon and the changes that have taken place over the years. Tickets are available for those interested in experiencing her unique perspective on the sport.
As the debate continues, it is clear that the integration of AI into tennis has brought both innovation and challenges. While the technology promises efficiency, it also raises important questions about the future of the sport and the value of human involvement. The balance between tradition and progress remains a critical issue, one that will shape the future of tennis for years to come.
