ELC malfunction costs Kalinskaya a point, but she advances at U.S. Open

A faulty electronic line calling system incorrectly ruled a Kalinskaya forehand out during her first-round match against Anna Blinkova, and the chair umpire did not use video review as protocols require. The USTA acknowledged the malfunction and said complete protocols were not followed. Kalinskaya still won the match, but the incident highlighted issues with the new review system.

EXPANDED:

The disputed call arrived at a pivotal moment, with Kalinskaya holding a 40-15 lead in the fifth game of the second set. When she requested a replay, the screen displayed footage of an unrelated serve rather than the forehand in question. The chair umpire declined her request for a supervisor, insisting the original call would stand.

The USTA confirmed the ELC Live system malfunctioned and acknowledged officials failed to follow complete protocols, stating video review should have been applicable. Electronic line calling is now standard across the ATP, WTA, and three of four Grand Slams, with the French Open remaining the exception due to clay-court ball mark inconsistencies that can diverge from system