Andrey Rublev’s disqualification from the semi-final match at the Dubai Tennis Championships has sparked discussions about the potential introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in tennis. The contentious incident that led to Rublev’s disqualification for alleged unsportsmanlike conduct towards a line judge has resulted in Alexander Bublik advancing to the final, where he will compete against Ugo Humbert.
In the deciding set, Bublik took a 6-5 lead, which triggered an impassioned outburst from Rublev. He was accused of using an obscenity in his native language. Despite denying the allegation and asserting that he spoke in English, Rublev was ultimately disqualified by umpire Mirian Bley. Bublik contested this decision and expressed his willingness to continue the match. Ultimately, Bublik emerged victorious with a score of 6-7 (4), 7-6 (5), 6-5.
Subsequent to the match, Bublik conveyed his frustration with the current system and advocated for the adoption of electronic line calling to avoid similar controversies in the future. Additionally, former player Brad Gilbert, who now coaches Coco Gauff, called for the mandatory use of video technology at all ATP and WTA tournaments to streamline officiating procedures and foster a fairer competitive environment.
The incident garnered attention from world no. 24 Alejandro Davidovich, who called for the inclusion of VAR in tennis, drawing parallels to the technology’s prevalence in football. Similarly, WTA world no. 12 Daria Kasatkina voiced her support for VAR implementation, emphasizing the need for video replays to ensure accurate decision-making in crucial match situations.
The disqualification presents a setback for Rublev, who had aimed to secure back-to-back titles at the Dubai Tennis Championships after losing to Daniil Medvedev in last year’s final. Meanwhile, Medvedev, who was defeated by Ugo Humbert in the semi-final clash, missed out on an opportunity to claim the championship title.
As the tennis community reflects on the controversial default and its implications for the sport, there is a growing clamour for VAR in tennis, highlighting the necessity for modern officiating technologies to enhance accuracy and fairness in professional tennis tournaments.