USTA invests in an electronic line-calling system to be used in recreational tennis

The USTA's new strategic investment initiative, USTA Ventures, has invested in PlayReplay, a tennis technology company featuring an electronic line-calling (ELC) system set to increase access to accurate, user-friendly ELC for junior, adult and recreational play nationwide.

The PlayReplay ELC system utilizes a minimally intrusive camera solution that provides a level of accuracy and precision not previously seen in replay technology priced for recreational competition. Through the PlayReplay app, or a touchscreen that can be installed courtside, players can immediately access necessary player and ball tracking data, “challenge” a line call and receive a visual representation of where the ball landed and an in/out ruling.

This is the first investment made by the USTA’s national strategic investment committee through USTA Ventures. Formed last year, the committee’s focus is on acquiring potential equity stakes in technologies and other companies that will help advance the USTA’s mission.

“We are thrilled to have the USTA joining forces with us in our mission to increase access to tennis technology,” CEO and co-founder of PlayReplay. Hans Lundstam, said. “Moreover, given the USTA’s understanding of the technology landscape in tennis, we are proud to be selected as USTA Ventures' first startup investment. We are impressed by the USTA’s ability to be innovators in this space, considering the scale of their operations, and couldn’t dream of a better partner for our venture in North America.”

The technology will also afford players the ability to access a wealth of data about their play, including shot speeds, court positioning, and percentage of shots hit in or out. Built-in coaching features provided by the system will also allow them unique insights into their training sessions.