Tennis’ line judges out

LONDON. - Tennis’ line judges face an uncertain future after the ATP announced that they will be replaced by “electronic line calls” at this year’s inaugural Next Gen Finals in Milan.

For the first time at an ATP event, the chair umpire will be the only official on court, with “Hawk-Eye Live” technology used to judge whether shots are in or out.

Decisions will be final with players unable to challenge calls as they do at most tournaments via Hawk-Eye playback.

Marginal calls will, however, still be accompanied by a visualisation on video screens around the stadium.

Foot-faults, usually called by judges positioned in line with the baseline, will be determined by a “review official” who will monitor the feet of servers via cameras.

The Next Gen ATP Finals in November, which will be contested by the top eight players aged 21 and under, will feature a range of new innovations including a shot clock and short sets.

Electronic line calling, however, raises the possibility of judges being phased out for good - ending the ritual of players scowling at officials when decision go against them.

“This could be a landmark moment for officiating in our sport,” Gayle David Bradshaw, executive vice president of the ATP’s Rules and Competition department, said. - Reuters.