Expanding Horizons: Electronic Line Calling Innovates Tennis

The International Tennis Federation is broadening the scope of Electronic Line Calling (ELC) technology within tennis tournaments. Previously limited to elite competitions, ELC systems are now classified under a new three-tier system: Gold, Silver, and Bronze, announced on Wednesday.

Gold tier systems will continue to be deployed at high-profile events like the Grand Slams and ATP/WTA Tours. Meanwhile, Silver systems will service second-tier competitions, and Bronze is geared towards national events. The restructuring, formed through collaboration with major tennis bodies, aims to make ELC more accessible and efficient, especially for tournaments with limited budgets.

This change standardizes the evaluation of ELC across all levels of competition, maintaining stringent criteria of accuracy and reliability. During the pandemic, ELC saw wider adoption, and despite mixed reviews at the recent Wimbledon Championships, its popularity persists among players. The French Open remains an outlier, currently opting against technology due to the unique line-judging utility presented by clay surfaces.

(With inputs from agencies.)