Laura Robson, the former tennis player and BBC presenter, has joined TNT Sports' coverage of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, with viewers expressing both praise and criticism over her role hosting gymnastics.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
Robson's debut as a gymnastics presenter drew comments on X (formerly Twitter). One user wrote: "It would help if they had a presenter who actually understood gymnastics." Another felt that other pundits were "talking rings" around her. A third commented: "Laura Robson looks way out of her depth," while someone else shared: "This is Laura Robson, the ex professional tennis player/Olympic doubles medalist. Not sure why she's working on gymnastics though."
However, other viewers spoke highly of her presenting skills. One person wrote: "I like Laura tbh and she is good on @SkySports." Another added: "She's been presenting the gymnastics at the Commonwealth Games and [is doing] really good again tbh." A third said: "One of the few commentators on there I recognise."
Coverage Changes and Host City Switch
The 2026 Games began in Glasgow last week after an Opening Ceremony featuring King Charles and Sir Chris Hoy, broadcast live on Channel 5 and TNT Sports. TNT Sports acquired exclusive live TV rights in the UK, ending the BBC's 72-year streak of live coverage. Daily live coverage starts at 8.30am on TNT Sports, with highlights on Channel 5 each night. Sports fans can also watch on HBO Max. Glasgow stepped in as host after the Australian state of Victoria withdrew in July 2023.
Robson's Career and Presenting Role
Laura Robson began her tennis career on the ITF Junior Circuit in 2007 and won Junior Wimbledon at age 14. She twice reached the girls' singles final at the Australian Open and was the first British woman since 1998 to reach the fourth round of a Grand Slam, at the 2012 US Open and 2013 Wimbledon. Since retiring in 2022, she has worked as a presenter and pundit for the BBC and TNT Sports, regularly offering expertise at Wimbledon. She replaced Isa Guha this year while the morning presenter hosted cricket coverage, delighting viewers who called for her to become a permanent presenter.
