Two-time defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz voiced frustration over the introduction of Live Electronic Line Calling (ELC) at Wimbledon 2025, which replaced traditional line judges for the first time in the tournament’s 148-year history. During his second-round match against British qualifier Oliver Tarvet on July 2, 2025, Alcaraz was overheard complaining to umpire James Keothavong, saying, “Not the first time it’s happened,” regarding a disputed call, as reported by @Metro_Sport on X. The automated system, using Hawk-Eye technology for instant “out” or “in” calls, has drawn mixed reactions, with Alcaraz’s comments highlighting ongoing adjustment issues among players.
Alcaraz’s frustration came during a 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 victory over Tarvet, a significant improvement over his grueling five-set first-round win against Fabio Fognini on June 30, where he struggled with a sub-50% first-serve percentage and 36 unforced errors in 32.3°C heat, per *BBC Sport*. The ELC system, implemented across all 18 courts to enhance accuracy, eliminated the need for the traditional 300 line judges, leaving only 80 for player escorts and backup, per *The Standard*. However, Alcaraz’s remarks echo sentiments from players like Stefanos Tsitsipas, who criticized the technology’s impact on the game’s human element, per *The Guardian*.
Adding to Alcaraz’s challenges, the Fognini match saw a 17-minute pause due to a spectator fainting in the heat, with Alcaraz aiding by providing water, per *Daily Mail*. His serve, despite improvements at Queen’s (12 aces per match, 33% unreturned), remains a concern, with Tarvet generating 11 break points, per *The Telegraph*. Posts on X, like @TennisVibes, noted Alcaraz’s visible irritation with the ELC, with some fans speculating it disrupted his rhythm, though he still extended his 20-match win streak.[]
Wimbledon’s chief executive, Sally Bolton, defended the ELC, citing its robustness after extensive testing, per *The Standard*. Yet, Alcaraz’s complaints, combined with early exits of seeds like Alexander Zverev and Holger Rune, highlight mounting challenges in a wide-open draw, per *Der Spiegel*. As Alcaraz faces Felix Auger-Aliassime or Jan-Lennard Struff next, his ability to adapt to the new technology and maintain focus will be crucial for a third consecutive title.
