'What makes tennis special is human connection': Wimbledon to replace line judges in favour of AI

10 October 2024, 15:33 | Updated: 10 October 2024, 18:02

The news that Wimbledon will abandon line judges in favour of AI technology marks a significant moment in the world of sport, particularly for a British institution that has upheld tradition for over 147 years.  

While technology in sport has become embedded in areas like player health and fan engagement, it’s crucial that we don’t implement AI for AI’s sake, especially when it risks sidelining the human element, displacing valuable jobs and alienating fans. 

Data and technology have been transformative in enhancing the experience of both players and fans.

Sports teams and organisations now use it to inform decisions on everything from player transfers to predicting injury risks.

The power of data is vast, but it must be used strategically. 

When it comes to AI specifically, the question should always be, “is this necessary?” In some cases, AI is invaluable.

For example, smart mouthguards in rugby can detect g-force levels and provide real-time information to physio teams about potential injuries.

With the knowledge we have now about concussions and traumatic brain injuries, in this case, AI and real-time data could literally save lives. 

However, fans of any sport will be the first to tell you that it’s not about numbers on a screen.

What makes tennis special is human connection, emotions and, yes, sometimes human error.

We should be cautious about implementing AI in areas where we risk eroding this.

Line judges at Wimbledon aren’t just functional; they’re part of the spectacle and have provided many memorable moments in their own right over the years.

Their decisions, while not always perfect, add to the theatre on Centre Court that brings hundreds of thousands of fans to SW19 every year. 

While a lot of AI scepticism and scaremongering is misplaced, it should be implemented where it can solve real problems, improve the player and fan experience or improve safety.

Let’s ensure this move is not an unforced error.

James Fisher is Chief Strategy Officer at Qlik.

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