Mid-Match Interviews
In an era where Reality TV is dominant over most other genres, the allure is too much for anyone to resist. We won’t be seeing a house full of WTA star players (not yet anyway, though I wouldn’t be surprised…), but we’re stepping closer to getting that kind of insider “feeling” in sports.
At least, this week in Miami we will.
Women’s tennis will embrace a new technological era by introducing mid-match television interviews, instant TV replays to decide line calls and enhanced microphones at this week’s Miami event.
The changes, which have the players’ support, mean the likes of Amelie Mauresmo and Maria Sharapova will conduct television interviews moments before stepping on court and their coaches will share their thoughts with viewers during matches.
Instant replays are also being used to decide close line-calls for the first time on the professional tour in the dual men’s and women’s event in Miami.
WTA Tour chief executive Larry Scott said the innovations heralded a new era for the traditionally conservative sport.
“The changes we’re announcing today represent a significant cultural shift,” Scott told Reuters by telephone. “The ball is starting to roll on these things.
“Tennis is a sport with a lot of heritage and traditions and protocols. I think tennis has probably relied on those traditions too much and we haven’t pushed the envelope the way other sports have to utilise technology and to look at making changes to our rules.
“Reality TV is a reality. People expect more ‘behind the scenes’, more ‘in your face’, more different insights into what they are watching. This is the way society is changing and we’re determined to make sure our sport keeps up with the times.”
Enhanced microphones are also being added to the players and the umpire’s chair, so we don’t miss any of the inside scoops.
Gotta love technology.
(source)
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