Wimbledon Apologizes for Line-Calling System Error

Wimbledon organizers have issued an apology, attributing the malfunction of the electronic line-calling system during a match on Sunday to “human error.” As a result of this incident, the tournament has revoked the capability for operators to manually disable the ball tracking system.

This decision follows a controversial moment in the fourth-round match between Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and Britain’s Sonay Kartal on Centre Court, where a crucial call was missed.

The All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (AELTC) stated, “Following our review, we have removed the ability for Hawk-Eye operators to manually deactivate the ball tracking.” They added that the steps taken ensure that such errors cannot occur again.

During the match, a shot from Kartal was incorrectly adjudged “in” by the electronic system, leading to confusion as Pavlyuchenkova halted play believing the ball was out. Umpire Nico Helwerth paused the match, but the automated voice urged to “stop,” adding to the disarray among players and spectators.

After consulting the system, Helwerth revealed that it had failed to track the last point, prompting it to be replayed – a move that left Pavlyuchenkova feeling robbed. She voiced her frustration that multiple “out” calls had been missed but maintained that Helwerth was not aware of the system’s failure.

Pavlyuchenkova ultimately won the match 7-6(3), 6-4, advancing to the quarterfinals. She remarked on the incident, emphasizing the need for an improved system, akin to those used in football, for clarity in critical match moments.

Players have raised concerns about the new automated system, with some, like Belinda Bencic, mentioning it has sparked discussion among peers. Pavlyuchenkova suggested a balance between technology and human officiating, stating, “We are losing a little bit of the charm of actually having human beings.”