It’s time to have AI tennis umpires. No sexism, racism or bias.

The USOpen 2018 Serena Williams and Nick Kyrgios umpire controversies make we wonder why we need human umpires in tennis any more. The allegations of sexism, racism and bias in the umpire would be completely removed with an AI umpire. We have the technology already to implement one, and then the rules can be followed evenly for everyone.

Especially in tennis, there really is no need for a human umpire anymore. High tech systems already determine whether the ball is out or not, let calls, foot faults etc — are all determined by cameras. Humans only get in the way of the players and the game now, as Carlos Ramos’ ridiculous sticking to the letter of the law for Serena, but not for Nadal shows: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/sep/09/carlos-ramos-serena-williams-tennis-umpire-us-open

And I can’t see an AI getting out of it’s chair to pep talk Nick Kyrgios’s out of his latest strop: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/video/2018/aug/31/controversy-follows-nick-kyrgios-after-umpires-pep-talk-at-us-open-video

This what AI is meant for. To be impassionate. Follow the rules for all. As long as it’s creators design it fairly, it will never be racist, sexist or nationalistic. It will interpret the rules the same for everyone. Give it a cool personality, and it could also be very entertaining, but never would it’s rulings be in doubt. And as for tennis players remonstrating with an AI, that would be just amusing, as they simply aren’t going to get it to change it’s mind. :)

Eventually, AI should really replace referees/umpires etc in all sports. The sight of overpaid footballers yelling at an impassive AI would be hilarious, and just make them look stupid. They would soon just have to get on with the game.

For me, this is the very positive aspect of AI. The ability for AI to rise above humanity’s worst traits and treat everyone equally. The USTA should start to work on removing umpires and their biases for good as soon as possible for the betterment of the game.