In a landmark shift, the historic tournament in southwest London has fully embraced electronic line-calling (ELC) systems, ending a 148-year tradition. More than 450 cameras now determine whether balls land in or out, relaying decisions through discreet on-court speakers. The familiar sight of line judges perched along the baselines and sidelines, ready to call 'out' with precise hand signals, has vanished
Line officials had worked alongside technology since 2007, when Hawk-Eye replays began assisting contentious calls. The umpire’s simple hand gesture for a review would send a ripple of excitement through Centre Court, triggering rhythmic clapping as fans waited for the replay on giant screens. That thrill, many say, is now missing
"It was part of the joy of going to Wimbledon -- the tradition. I just used to love it when they all walked out in their uniforms," said company director Fiona Jones, 52. "Technology is good but I think it's definitely lost something by not having them there," she said, adding that the back of the court now seemed "empty"
Tech worker Marie Sal, 26, shared similar sentiments. While she appreciated the speed and accuracy of the new system, she admitted, “the energy, the drama — that’s gone.”
While roughly 80 former line judges now serve as match assistants, two on each court to aid the umpire and step in if systems fail, their plight has become symbolic of broader anxieties about artificial intelligence. Two English students at the tournament even voiced concerns over AI’s impact on future employment, sympathising with those whose roles have been supplanted by machines
(With AFP inputs)
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