Beatriz Haddad Maia secured her spot in the US Open fourth round on Saturday, benefitting from a controversial video review decision that threw her opponent, Anna Kalinskaya, off her game. The incident occurred early in the third-round clash at Louis Armstrong Stadium, when Kalinskaya, trailing 2-0 in the opening set, challenged a point, claiming Haddad Maia had hit a double bounce. After consulting her tablet, chair umpire Miriam Bley ruled that the shot was legitimate and awarded the point to the Brazilian.
Kalinskaya, visibly rattled by the decision, struggled to regain her composure, winning only two of the next 14 games as Haddad Maia took control of the match. The Brazilian left-hander, known for her powerful game, will now face former world number one Caroline Wozniacki in the last 16.
The US Open introduced video reviews last year, expanding their use to eight courts in 2024. However, the system has faced criticism for its inconsistent implementation and lack of availability in all tournaments. The controversial incident involving Haddad Maia and Kalinskaya further fueled the debate over the use of video reviews in tennis.
Earlier this year at the Cincinnati Masters, a similar incident involving Jack Draper and Felix Auger-Aliassime highlighted the need for consistent technology in making accurate line calls. Draper was awarded a point on a dubious linecall that officials could not verify without video review, despite both players agreeing to a replay.
US Open champion Coco Gauff also advocated for wider use of video reviews after a disputed line call during her semi-final match at the French Open. The incident with Haddad Maia and Kalinskaya at the US Open adds further evidence to the growing consensus that video reviews should be used more frequently to ensure fair and accurate calls in tennis.
