Andrew Castle and John Lloyd are working their final Wimbledon men's final for the BBC on Sunday, July 12, 2026, as the broadcaster ends their commentary roles. Castle, the lead commentator, confirmed the departure during the broadcast, stating that the BBC had 'booted' him and Lloyd out.
Castle and Lloyd's Final Match
The pair are commentating on the men's singles final between world No. 1 Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev on Centre Court. Sinner is defending his title and aiming for his fifth Grand Slam trophy. However, regardless of the outcome, Castle and Lloyd will not return for the 2027 tournament.
Presenter Rishi Persad said on BBC One: 'We are running out of time but I just want to wish you the best of luck for the final today Andrew, your last one for us...' Castle replied: 'Yes. I am a bit sad about it of course. I have fabulous memories, even working with John! John's finishing as well. We're being put out to grass. That's it. Booted!'
Lloyd's Long Career
John Lloyd, a former tennis player, reflected on his lengthy tenure: 'I've had a good run. I started when there was still black and white TV, it's been a while. You didn't start that young, you're much younger than me. You were great to work with, I loved every minute of it.' Castle responded: 'Well I did too. My kids were eight and 10 when I did my first final, they're now married and one has children and one is expecting on the way! So don't tell me there's nothing to do. We'll play golf next week yes?'
BBC's Change of Direction
It was known before the tournament that Castle was leaving due to a 'change of direction' in the BBC's Wimbledon coverage. Castle told BBC Radio 5 Live: 'I'm approaching it [the final] in exactly the same way I have the other ones. I'm taking a few more pictures this time because I know it's coming to an end.'
He added: 'I don't hide this, I'm very, very sad and disappointed and all these other things. There's a sense of grief that goes with this because there's so many memories. I've never taken it for granted.'
Unexpected Departure
Castle described the news as unexpected: 'I had a meeting after taking a phone call that didn't sound too good. Phil Bernie came down from BBC Sport and said 'look, we're going in a different direction for the final next year, we'd like you to stay a part of the team.' I thought about that, talked to my wife Sophia and the children, let it sit. Then I declined to be a part of the team for next year, because once you've done the final, everything else is less.'
He concluded: 'Anyway, there we are, they've decided to go in a new direction for the final and I wish whoever sits in that privileged seat the very best. I still feel like I have something to offer, but that decision has been taken away from me, and I respect that. I'm very, very grateful. In those few moments where I've grieved a little bit, I've reminded myself that this has all been part of a great and lucky run. Just leave, and be happy and smiling.'
