Tennis analysis tool brings live stats to Wimbledon fans
Those rows of swivelling heads following the tennis ball during Wimbledon matches could become the 'Centre Court nod' as spectators instead check a new artificial intelligence service about matches they are watching.
The All England Lawn Tennis Club has unveiled an AI-powered 'match chat' assistant that can answer fans' questions and provide unprecedented levels of analysis during ladies' and men's singles matches.
The system is targeted particularly at younger fans who watch sport with one eye on the live action and the other on their mobile phones.
Although the development will dismay some traditionalists, it has been welcomed by the tennis coach Judy Murray, mother of Sir Andy, who has twice been men's singles champion, and Jamie Murray, who has twice won the mixed-doubles championships.
Judy Murray said that the system would 'engage with those who are growing up with technology'
JOHN WALTON/PA
'It's all about engaging with those who are growing up with technology, or have grown up with technology, and understanding how they get their news and their information and how they are viewing sport,' Murray said. 'I certainly see it with the young people that I'm coming into contact with.'
She added: 'They do not have the same attention span. They may be watching a match and want the highlights of another game on their telephones. They want the statistical information about what is happening during the match and not have to wait until the end.'
The AI analysis, which is powered by the technology giant IBM, will also be given to the players' boxes so they can change their tactics following a lifting of a ban on in-game coaching.
Wimbledon allowed coaching during matches for the first time in 2023. Coaches can issue advice either verbally or via hand signals at any time, except during the playing of a point.
Murray said: 'The skill of the coach is disseminating that information and passing on what is the most relevant and easy the player to take on in the heart of the match.'
Wimbledon is also replacing 300 line judges with artificial intelligence from this year's championships. AI-generated commentary was introduced in 2023 for matches which would not normally be covered by humans.
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