The US Open is set to reintroduce Video Review (VR) technology in order to assist tennis officials in resolving disputed calls made by players at this year’s tournament.
In 2023, the US Open became the first Grand Slam event to implement Video Review technology, with the aim of providing evidence to either uphold or overturn an original call.
During its initial trial phase, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) confirmed that five courts would have access to the VR technology. However, there were technical issues during its first use when it was expected to make a definitive ruling on a double bounce.
Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray, who was involved in the match where the controversial call occurred, urged the organizers to “fix it.” It appears that the organizers have addressed the concerns to enhance the system for the 2024 edition of the tournament.
According to a reliable source, the VR technology will be utilized for all main draw matches at the 2024 US Open on the three largest courts: Arthur Ashe, Louis Armstrong, and Grandstand. Additionally, Stadium 17 and Courts 5, 7, 11, and 12 will also have access to the technology.
The Video Review system is typically operated by an off-court VR official and operator, who transmit the video footage of a disputed call to the chair umpire overseeing the match on their tablet.
The chair umpires will review the presented evidence on their small screens and determine whether to uphold or overturn a call. If there is insufficient evidence from the footage to change the call, the original decision will stand.
Players are allowed a maximum of three video reviews per set (one additional review in each tiebreak). However, which calls will be subject to the VR technology to assist chair umpires in making accurate decisions?
The VR technology will be used to review shots that are deemed foul, double bounces, instances of touch, hindrance, or a ball hitting a permanent fixture on the court (anything not part of the playing surface). It is important to note that this system should not be confused with Hawk-Eye technology, which is automated and determines whether a ball has touched the line or not.
In fact, the VR technology is designed to complement the electronic line calling system in case of malfunctions. Furthermore, it will also be utilized to rectify scoring errors.
Like many systems, VR technology has its limitations and cannot be used to officiate an entire match. It cannot be utilized to address time violations, foot faults, or line calls made by the Hawk-Eye system (unless it is not functioning).
Additionally, the VR technology can only intervene in a code violation if it would result in a default; the umpire and supervisor have the discretion to review the footage in such cases.
This will come as a welcome relief to the players as certain decisions in tennis matches can have a significant impact on the result. Coco Gauff, a prominent player in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), has previously expressed the need for the sport to fully embrace technological advancements.
