New Delhi, 06 July (H.S.): Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) will introduce an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Table Tennis Review (TTR) system for the first time during its seventh season, marking a major technological advancement in the league. The new review system will be used in all matches of the tournament, scheduled to be held in Goa from July 9 to July 26, 2026.

The organisers announced on Monday that the AI-based review system will provide evidence-based assessments of disputed umpiring decisions in less than 20 seconds. The technology has been specifically developed to address the high-speed nature and technical complexities of table tennis, enabling faster and more accurate decision-making.

The system will review six key officiating situations, including the height of the ball toss during service, the angle of the toss, whether the ball drops below the level of the table surface, whether the bounce occurs inside or outside the playing area, whether the ball is concealed during service, and edge-ball decisions where the ball clips the edge of the table.

To support the review process, 14 to 15 synchronised high-speed cameras will be installed around each court. These cameras will capture the ball's movement, service technique, and point of contact with the table from multiple angles. An AI engine will then analyse the data and generate visual evidence within seconds, assisting match officials in making accurate and consistent decisions.

The organisers said the technology will not be limited to on-court officials. The review process will also be integrated into the live broadcast, allowing viewers to watch AI-assisted reviews in real time and enhancing the transparency of officiating decisions.

Ultimate Table Tennis has steadily expanded its use of technology and data analytics since 2019. The league has already incorporated AI-powered live statistics, real-time scoring, comprehensive player and team databases, standings, detailed match analytics, advanced performance analysis, and shot-speed tracking. With the addition of the AI-based review system, the organisers expect to further strengthen fairness, accuracy, and transparency in the competition.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar