Player challenge protocol for electronic line calling at the US Open (the Chase Review) will go from its current two challenges per set plus one for tiebreakers to three challenges per set plus one for tiebreakers. The additional challenge per set will be added to increase usage of the player challenge system, while helping to create a uniform protocol across the pro game.
In 2006, the US Open became the first Grand Slam to use electronic line calling technology, creating a “2 plus 1” player challenge system. The technology was introduced to improve officiating for players, while increasing the intrigue and excitement for in-stadium fans and television viewers. The new technology was immediately embraced by officials, players and fans.
The “3 plus 1” player challenge system will be used at the 2008 US Open. All professional tennis events where an electronic line calling system is in place, including all Olympus US Open Series events this summer, will use the “3 plus 1” protocol. For the US Open, the system will continue to be referred to as the “Chase Review.”
“Electronic line calling, with its player challenge system, has been one of the most widely-acclaimed initiatives in tennis,” said Jim Curley, USTA Managing Director of Tournament Operations and US Open Tournament Director. “With an additional challenge per set, we look forward to the Chase Review being used more frequently at this year’s US Open.”
The on-court player challenge system for review of line calls at the US Open will be as follows:
·Each player is allowed a maximum of three incorrect challenges per set after which they are not permitted to challenge again in that set.
·If a set goes to a tiebreaker, each player will receive one additional challenge.
·Challenges may not be carried over from one set to another.
During the 2007 US Open, a total of 320 calls were challenged by players. A total of 95, or 30.6% of the challenged calls, were overturned.
# # #
The USTA is the national governing body for the sport of tennis in the U.S. and the leader in promoting and developing the growth of tennis at every level -- from local communities to the highest level of the professional game. It owns and operates the US Open, the highest attended annual sporting event in the world, and launched the Olympus US Open Series linking 10 summer tournaments to the US Open. In addition, it owns the 94 Pro Circuit events throughout the U.S., and selects the teams for the Davis Cup, Fed Cup, Olympic and Paralympic Games. A not-for-profit organization with 725,000 members, it invests 100% of its proceeds in growing the game. For more information on the USTA, log on to usta.com.