The All England Club made a landmark change at Wimbledon 2025 by replacing traditional line judges with the AI-powered Hawk-Eye Electronic Line Calling (ELC) system. This advancement transforms line call officiating on the iconic grass courts, enhancing accuracy and efficiency. Hawk-Eye ELC uses up to 18 high-speed cameras positioned around the court to capture real-time footage from multiple angles. Advanced AI algorithms then analyze this data instantly to determine whether a ball is in or out, eliminating human delay and reducing errors. This technology fully replaces the traditional line judges who have long managed boundary calls. As a result, the number of required line judges has drastically dropped from over 300 to about 80 personnel, who now primarily assist chair umpires and support match operations. According to All England Club Chief Executive Sally Bolton, the main goal behind adopting Hawk-Eye ELC was to boost accuracy and consistency rather than cut costs or reduce staff, demonstrating a commitment to innovation while upholding fairness and integrity. Reactions from players, officials, and fans have been mixed. World number one Jannik Sinner praised the system’s remarkable precision, particularly under the challenge of fast serves on grass, commending how Hawk-Eye supports players by providing clear, indisputable decisions that reduce disputes and ensure fair outcomes in close matches.

However, some concerns have emerged: Chinese player Yuan Yue criticized the system’s audio alerts for being too quiet during intense moments, raising questions about effective communication to players and audiences. Additionally, inconsistent visibility of replay footage on courtside monitors has left some spectators confused and less engaged. Longtime tennis enthusiasts have lamented the loss of tradition and atmosphere previously created by human line judges. Many believe the presence of line judges adds emotional intensity, with players’ challenges and human errors contributing to psychological drama. The challenge process itself has been a strategic, suspenseful element now perceived by some as diminished with automated calls. Public opinion has also varied, including small protests outside Wimbledon expressing unease about replacing human judgment with AI. Detractors worry this reliance on robotics could erode the human element that makes sports compelling and unpredictable. In sum, adopting Hawk-Eye Electronic Line Calling represents a major modernization by the All England Club, positioning Wimbledon at the forefront of integrating technology into tennis officiating. While it promises greater accuracy and impartiality and reduces human error, it also sparks nostalgia for traditional methods and ongoing debate about balancing innovation with preserving the sport’s spirit. As Wimbledon evolves, the tennis community will closely watch how this technological shift impacts the beloved game.