Wimbledon Phases Out Line Judges

The decision to eliminate line judges at Wimbledon has been deemed “inevitable” by AELTC chief executive Sally Bolton, as announced on Thursday.

Historic Change for Wimbledon

This year’s Wimbledon marks the first time in its 148-year history that line judges will not be present, a familiar sight with their elegant attire and poised positions. The event will now employ electronic line calling (ELC), a system already in use at the Australian and U.S. Opens. The only Grand Slam still utilizing line judges is the French Open, where umpires can inspect marks left by shots on clay.

Support Transition for Match Assistants

The tournament’s roster of 300 judges has been reduced to 80 “match assistants,” with two assigned to each court. They will aid umpires in managing on-court activities and serve as backups in case the ELC system fails. Bolton stated that the line judges have recognized the inevitability of this transition.

Embracing Technological Evolution

Bolton expressed that many line judges expected this change due to ongoing advancements in technology and developments in other tournaments. “I think for many of them they had expected this change to come along,” she noted, adding that those transitioning to match assistants are pleased to remain involved in the Championships.

Prize Money and Player Engagement

This year’s prize money pool has increased by seven percent to £53.5 million ($72.7 million), doubling the amount from a decade ago. Singles champions will each receive £3 million ($4.1 million), the highest among Grand Slams, while first-round losers will see a payout of £66,000, a 10 percent increase from the previous year.

Future Plans and Expansion

The AELTC is focused on its controversial expansion plans, seeking to build 39 new grass courts on the old Wimbledon Park golf course. A hearing will occur on July 8-9, 2025, to address the project, with a judicial review expected to follow. This expansion is deemed crucial for the AELTC to keep pace with other major tournaments.

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The main draw for Wimbledon is set to begin on Monday, June 30, promising new experiences for players and spectators alike.

(Photo: Sebastien Bozon / AFP via Getty Images)