Why are there no line judges at Wimbledon this year?

The eyes of the tennis world and beyond turn to Wimbledon over the next fortnight as the world’s best battle it out on the grass.

Carlos Alcaraz is favourite to win a third consecutive title at SW19 but will face competition from the likes of Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic and Jack Draper, while world number Aryna Sabalenka goes in search of her first Wimbledon success.

It is a tournament steeped in tradition, with players having to wear all-white clothing and it remains the only Grand Slam with a night-time curfew.

However, there is one major change this year that fans will notice, with no line judges at Wimbledon for the first time in its 148-year history.

As is the case at all ATP tour events and many WTA tournaments, electronic line calling will be used at Wimbledon.

There will no longer be the usual line up of judges at the back and sides of courts, with the tournament relying on technology instead on all 18 courts.

Automated voice calls will be heard when a ball lands out and the challenge system will no longer be necessary.

In previous years, around 300 line judges were used at Wimbledon for the two weeks. However, this time there will be only 80 on hand at SW19, escorting players who need to leave the court and stepping in if the technology fails.

Wimbledon’s chief executive, Sally Bolton, said: “The decision to introduce Live Electronic Line Calling at the championships was made following a significant period of consideration and consultation.