Major Wimbledon change as iconic feature of tournament will be MISSING for first time in its 148 year history
LINE judges will be absent from Wimbledon today for the first time in the tournament's 148-year history — after being booted out by AI.
Around 300 of the blazer-wearing officials who call 'out' and 'fault' have been axed in favour of an electronic gizmo.
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Replacing them is the Hawk-Eye Challenge System which uses high-speed cameras and algorithms to track ball trajectory with pinpoint accuracy.
Voices used by the tech are from people working behind-the-scenes at Wimbledon, including tour guides.
The decision to adopt AI was made after a pilot at last year's tournament.
It is understood the All England Club was reluctant, but the tech has been used in other events for years.
Chair umpires will remain.
Sally Bolton, chief executive of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, said AI will ensure 'maximum accuracy' in officiating.
British No 4 Billy Harris, 30, said: 'I'm sure the umpires will be missed.
'It feels like a quieter court when they're not there, and they are all dressed up nice in the suits.
'But if the line calls are more accurate I guess most of the players are not going to be complaining.'
Former line judges had to compete for 80 new match assistant roles, which can involve measuring the net, opening tubes of new balls and escorting players to the toilet.
Veteran linesman Charles Falconer, 77, who would have been awarded a trophy and certificate to mark his 50th year this summer, reportedly missed out.
One judge said: 'Charlie even asked if he could do stewarding to make the milestone, but the tournament told him there was nothing available.
'I thought Wimbledon were better than that.'
A total of 23 Brits are in the singles events at this year's tournament — the most since 1984.
QUEUE CANNOT BE SERIOUS
TENNIS-mad fans pitched tents and sofas overnight to be the first through the gates of Wimbledon this morning.
Some 1,400 eager supporters braved searing heat and crammed into nearby Wimbledon Park.
Tournament bosses have even issued a dossier on how to queue correctly.
The guide warns against smoking, cooking on barbecues and toilet breaks of more than half an hour.
Among those queuing last night was Quin Latimore, 29, who said: 'It's filling up fast.
'I have been doing this for quite a few years and have never seen it this busy.'
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