Elena Rybakina criticised the electronic line-calling system during her match at the Madrid Open, saying she does not trust the technology after a disputed decision.
The incident occurred during her three-set victory over Zheng Qinwen, which Rybakina won 4-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Controversial Call Sparks Frustration
The disagreement came in the second set when Zheng was awarded an ace at a crucial moment.
Rybakina immediately questioned the decision, pointing to the clay mark and asking umpire Julie Kjendlie to inspect it. However, the official declined, stating she had to rely on the electronic system.
Rybakina Rejects Technology Verdict
The Kazakh player expressed strong dissatisfaction, insisting the call did not match the visible mark on court.
She said the system appeared inaccurate and admitted she found it difficult to trust such decisions after the incident.
Echoes Of Previous Madrid Controversy
The situation mirrored last year’s controversy involving Alexander Zverev, who also challenged an electronic call at the same tournament.
Zverev even took a photograph of a disputed mark during his match, leading to a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Debate Over Technology Continues
Rybakina described the point as “frustrating” and suggested it had been unfairly decided.
While electronic line-calling is widely used to improve accuracy, incidents like this continue to raise questions about its reliability, especially on clay courts where ball marks are visible.
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