Novak Djokovic criticizes lack of video technology in tennis
24-time Grand Slam champion, Novak Djokovic, has criticized the lack of video technology in tennis as "embarrassing." Djokovic's comments came in response to a controversial umpiring decision at the recently-concluded Cincinnati Masters. The disputed call occurred during a match between Jack Draper and Felix Auger-Aliassime, where the former won a point despite suspicions that the ball had hit his racquet twice before crossing over the net.
Controversial call sparks debate
The contentious call in aforementioned encounter left Auger-Aliassime visibly frustrated. Auger-Aliassime had a discussion with Draper and the umpire, arguing that he should have been awarded the point due to an apparent double bounce. Despite his protests, chair umpire Greg Allensworth, without access to instant replay technology, ruled in favor of Draper. This decision ended the match and ignited intense debate on court.
Djokovic calls for video replay in tennis
Djokovic expressed his disappointment over the incident on social media, stating, "It's embarrassing that we don't have video replay of these kind of situations on the court." He further criticized the chair umpires should revise their initial call based on off-court video reviews. The Serbian urged respective tours to ensure such incidents do not recur.
Gauff echoes Djokovic's sentiments
American tennis star Coco Gauff has also voiced her support for video replays in tennis. Gauff expressed her frustration saying, "I feel like in tennis, we should have a VR (video review) system because these points are big deals." Notably, Gauff was eliminated from the 2024 Paris Olympics at Roland Garros last month, following a bitter dispute with the chair umpire over a line call during her loss to Donna Vekic.
US Open uses video replay technology
The US Open, the season's final Grand Slam event, utilizes video replay technology. However, this advanced tool is largely absent from tour events. Most ATP tournaments, including the Cincinnati Masters, where the controversial call occurred, have not yet invested in similar technologies. Crucial points depend on potentially flawed human judgment, which has caused frustration among players and fans.
