For Thomas Sweeney, the initial motivation to serve as a line judge stemmed from the promise of a complimentary sandwich.
Pauline Eyre, a line caller at Wimbledon for a decade and a half, found her primary reward for duties that required her to use vacation time in stylish jackets and the opportunity to purchase event tickets.
Currently, top-tier officials can potentially earn as much as £200 daily, in addition to covering their expenditures.
However, for individuals dedicating extended periods to lean forward with hands on knees, intensely focusing on a chalk line to instantaneously discern where the yellow ball landed, line judging has never primarily been a financial endeavor.
Eyre considered experiences such as observing Jana Novotna’s trembling foot during the opening point of a Wimbledon final from such close proximity on Centre Court, or being intimidated by John McEnroe, utterly invaluable.
Moreover, the attire played a role.
Malgorzata Grzyb, who chairs the Association of British Tennis Officials (ABTO), shared with BBC Sport that “Stepping onto the famed grass courts at SW19, donned in the uniform widely regarded as belonging to the most elegantly attired officials across all sports, is an unparalleled sensation.”
Nevertheless, circumstances have evolved. For the initial time in its 148-year existence, Wimbledon will proceed without line judges, as electronic line calling technology has been adopted.
While competitors and referees have grown accustomed to this modified arrangement, given its presence at other competitions for some time, the more vacant courts at Wimbledon’s pristine green surfaces, where branding is subdued and participants wear white, could appear somewhat more conspicuous.
Eyre commented, “The essence of Wimbledon lies in its traditions – the individuals and their distinctive uniforms – and a portion of that character has now vanished. I believe these small details collectively forged what Wimbledon is.”
While those adhering to tradition will feel their absence, enthusiasts of technology will highlight advancements.
BBC Sport has been investigating the perspectives of referees, athletes, and line judges regarding this transition.
