Jessica Pegula criticized a new tennis rule allowing video reviews of hindrances after points conclude, following a controversial call in Jack Draper's Indian Wells Open quarterfinal against Daniil Medvedev. The American player described the rule as 'stupid' during a podcast appearance. The incident has prompted debate and ATP Tour adjustments.
In the quarterfinal match at the Indian Wells Open, Jack Draper reacted instinctively to Daniil Medvedev’s baseline shot, leading to a hindrance penalty despite Draper winning the rally after several more shots. Umpire Aurelie Tourte upheld the call using video review technology, explaining that Medvedev could request it after the point ended. Draper remained composed, stating, “In the rulebook, if he misses the next ball, then I understand, but we played two more shots.” Tourte replied, “This is correct, but now that we have video review, he is allowed to request it when the point is over.” He accepted the decision calmly despite disagreement. Jessica Pegula addressed the incident on The Player’s Box Podcast, noting, “It’s a new rule that has changed this year.” She added, “I think it’s kind of stupid to be able to go back and challenge something... for hindrance, it is a little weird that you can literally lose the point five or six shots later and go back.” Pegula defended Medvedev, saying, “I don’t blame Daniil [Medvedev], I just think it’s a bad rule.” Madison Keys, on the same podcast, supported video review generally but questioned the call: “I thought Jack [Draper] made a really good point that if it was a hindrance, then I think he would have understood if he had missed the ball after Jack made the gesture, but he hit three more balls.” Former ATP player Steve Johnson compared it to other sports: “Any other sport, football, hockey, baseball, you can’t challenge a play prior.” Tennis legend Martina Navratilova agreed: “I don’t agree with reviewing it, like, three points later.” Journalist Jon Wertheim reported ATP Tour changes on X, ending the trial of post-point hindrance video reviews and allowing unlimited challenges with umpire discretion. Video review technology, debuted last year at Indian Wells, covers decisions like hindrances.