Source: REUTERS/IVAN ALVARADO
[Saba Sports News] Since 2014, the Badminton
World Federation has introduced a high-tech tool called the “instant
replay system,” commonly known as the “Eagle Eye” system, in the
badminton world. The concept behind this system is relatively straightforward.
It utilizes an ultra-high-speed camera to capture multiple angles of the
badminton’s flight path. Through computer analysis, the data is converted into
a three-dimensional image, which is then displayed on a large screen, allowing
spectators to clearly see the badminton lines and landing points. Although the
Badminton World Federation has been advocating for the implementation of the
Hawkeye system, keen observers may have noticed that this technology is not
available in every match. Taking the 2024 All England Badminton Open as an
example, only Court No. 1 is equipped with the “Eagle Eye” system.
This has led to dissatisfaction among many top players, including Viktor
Axelsen, the world’s number one men’s singles player. Axelsen expressed his
discontentment after being scheduled to play on the third court during the top
16 matches, suggesting that his position was not deserving of playing on the
premier court. In the editor’s opinion, the rental cost of the “Eagle
Eye” system is exorbitantly high, amounting to tens of thousands of
dollars per week. This steep expense hampers the widespread adoption of the
“Eagle Eye” technology worldwide.