Wimbledon Replaces Line Judges with AI Technology, Retains 80 as Match Assistants

Wimbledon 2025 marks a historic change as it eliminates human line judges for the first time in its 148-year history, replacing them with AI-powered electronic line-calling technology, known as Hawk-Eye, which has been widely used in other major tennis tournaments. The All England Club's CEO, Sally Bolton, emphasized that this move balances tradition with innovation and is aimed at maximizing accuracy in officiating rather than cutting costs, noting that around 80 former line judges remain employed as match assistants to support chair umpires and step in if technology fails. The decision has sparked mixed reactions among fans and officials, with some lamenting the loss of traditional interactions and the iconic presence of line judges, while others appreciate the precision and consistency technology offers. Former line judges express a sense of loss and nostalgia, highlighting the camaraderie among officials and their long-standing role in the sport. The technology uses multiple high-tech cameras around the courts to track the ball, and in the rare event of a malfunction, match assistants are prepared to resume line judging duties. Overall, Wimbledon joins the US Open and Australian Open in adopting this automated system, reflecting a broader trend toward embracing technology in tennis officiating.