BBC viewers expressed outrage after pundits shifted focus from a World Cup match to Serena Williams' Wimbledon comeback. During Norway's 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, Gabby Logan turned the conversation to Williams, who was about to play her first match at SW19 since returning at age 44. Erling Haaland had just scored a late winner to send Norway into the last 16, but the BBC1 coverage diverted to discuss Williams facing Aussie Maya Joint on BBC2.
Viewers vent frustrations on social media
Fans took to X to complain about the interruption. @TMUFC wrote: "What the h*** are they playing on bbc ???? World Cup on and we’re hearing about Serena Williams." @MutedIrish added: "BBC blabbering on about Serena Williams for 3 minutes in the middle of a World Cup game. Ridiculous." @350Deep similarly posted: "World Cup going on and BBC commentating about Serena Williams?? What the hell is going on." @Christo82406026 said: "F*** me #BBC more interested in Serena Williams returning than commentating on the football."
Serena Williams' Wimbledon return
Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, made her comeback at Wimbledon after a hiatus. The BBC's decision to cover her return during a World Cup match drew widespread criticism, with many viewers feeling the football should have taken priority.
