The BBC has confirmed a major change to their Wimbledon television coverage following this summer's championships. Andrew Castle, 62, who has served as the corporation's main TV commentator for the yearly Grand Slam since 2003, will fulfill this role for the final time this summer.
Castle's Departure Announced
The former British No.1 revealed his upcoming departure in an interview published by The Times. The BBC confirmed the news less than 24 hours later. A BBC spokesperson said: "We wanted Andrew to continue with the BBC at Wimbledon next year, but he has now decided that this year will be his last. We look forward to working with him at the 2026 Championships and thank him for his great work leading our commentary team there for more than 20 years."
However, according to Castle's interview, BBC head of sport Alex Kay-Jelski chose a fresh direction for coverage. Castle reportedly accepted the news without bitterness, having learned of it a couple of months ago.
Castle's Reflections
Castle said: "It's been a hell of a journey. I can't say I have enjoyed every minute because there have been moments of pressure and controversy, but it has been a huge privilege." He added: "To be honest, when I got the job 23 years ago, a lot of the more experienced commentators felt that they should have been first in line. Their noses were put out of joint. So, in the wider scheme of things, I am lucky that I had the best gig in sports broadcasting for so long, during the greatest age of men's tennis."
The former world No.80 says he has no new position lined up: "I am not sure what will come next professionally, but whatever it is, I'll embrace it."
Other Roles
Castle previously spent a decade as a presenter on ITV's Good Morning Television, and has fronted game shows Divided and Perseverance. He has presented radio programmes including the Smooth Radio breakfast show, and hosted The Great American Songbook before weekend breakfasts on LBC.
