Jackson challenge makes tennis history

MIAMI, Mar 22 (Reuters) Jamea Jackson became the first player to challenge a line call using electronic technology in a regular WTA event during her 7-5 6-7 7-5 defeat by Ashley Harkleroad at the Nasdaq-100 Open in Miami today.

The American used one of her two challenges on the first point of the second set on a forehand called out. An official immediately studied a replay using the Hawkeye system and ruled that the call was correct.

The decision was flashed on the scoreboard for fans to see and play then continued.

Electronic line-calling technology is making its debut this week at the men's and women's tournament -- a decision that has received a mixed welcome from the players.

Hawkeye can measure ball position to within four millimetres using eight court cameras. Players have two challenges per set and only lose a challenge if they are incorrect.

Michaella Krajicek of the Netherlands was the first to use Hawkeye in late December during a tie against China at the Hopman Cup, a team event sanctioned by the International Tennis Federation. Jackson broke the ice on the regular Tour.

Reuters DH VP0217