BBC lets go of famous commentator just weeks before Wimbledon
The BBC is planning a big change in their tennis coverage by saying goodbye to a well-loved commentator after 23 years. Wimbledon starts on June 29, and fans are already buzzing with excitement, especially after hearing that Serena and Venus Williams will team up in the women’s doubles. They got a wildcard entry and will be going for their 15th Grand Slam doubles title together.
While these two tennis legends will surely shine at the All England Club, one familiar voice won’t be around for much longer. Andrew Castle, the BBC’s main tennis commentator for the past two decades, shared in a recent interview that he’ll step down after the 2026 Wimbledon.
Castle, 62, has been the voice behind many unforgettable tennis moments, including Andy Murray’s big wins at Wimbledon. Talking with former table tennis player Matthew Syed, Castle called his career “a hell of a journey” and said he isn’t exactly sure what’s next for him.
He recalled starting the job 23 years ago, when some of the more experienced commentators were hoping for the role themselves and weren’t too happy. “In the bigger picture, I’ve been really lucky to have the best job in sports broadcasting during the greatest era of men’s tennis,” he said.
Castle also shared a bit about his personal life: “My wife Sophia and I are building a house, and we’re about to welcome our third grandchild, so things are good. I don’t know what comes next professionally, but whatever it is, I’ll be ready for it.”
Recently, Castle has been part of the BBC’s Queen’s tournament coverage. Over the years, he’s also worked on radio and TV for shows like GMTV, LBC, and Smooth Radio. The Sun reports that broadcasters like Jonathan Overend, Nick Mullins, Nick Lester, and Marcus Buckland may take over his role.
Castle is the latest big name to leave the BBC, following others like Gary Lineker and Sue Barker. Reflecting on his career, Castle said, “I haven’t enjoyed every moment—there’ve been some pressures and controversies—but it’s been a huge honor. You need a bit of luck, and I’ve had mine, but you also have to make your own luck by taking risks and bouncing back from rejection.”
When asked about his favorite moment, Castle pointed to Murray’s 2013 Wimbledon win against Novak Djokovic—a victory that ended a 77-year wait for a British men’s singles champion. He remembered the intense last game, with Djokovic saving three match points and the tension in the air. He even came up with a line then: “Sporting immortality doesn’t come easily.”
The BBC told SPORTbible that Castle will still be involved in Wimbledon coverage after 2026, even though this year’s tournament will be his final one as lead commentator.