Emma Raducanu and Katie Boulter were snubbed by TV broadcasters at Queen's as the BBC prioritised coverage of Serena Williams' return to tennis. Fans expressed disappointment that the British duo's doubles match was not televised, while Williams' appearance on the Andy Murray Arena received full coverage.
BBC Coverage Sparks Fan Outrage
The BBC's decision to focus on Serena Williams' comeback match left British fans unable to watch Raducanu and Boulter's first-round doubles clash against Storm Hunter and Shuai Zhang on court one. Despite being the top two British players, their match was not broadcast, prompting criticism on social media.
One fan wrote: "Really disappointing that the BBC isn't showing the Emma/Katie doubles match because they can only broadcast Andy Murray Arena at Queens. No stream, no alternative feed for UK viewers. Big match and British fans are missing out." Another added: "Why aren't the Brits on the best court? Disgraceful. Oh hang on, it's the Serena Williams show."
Williams' Return Steals the Spotlight
Serena Williams made her return to tennis nearly four years after announcing her retirement, playing doubles with Victoria Mboko. The pair defeated Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Erin Routliffe 7-6, 6-2 in front of a packed crowd. Williams said in her post-match interview: "It was so fun. I had so much fun playing with Victoria. She was really able to hold up the team and play big on the big points." Asked why she came back, she quipped: "I had nothing better to do, I got tired of sitting at home. My kids are out of school for the summer, so why not?"
British Players Shine in Singles
Despite the doubles snub, both Raducanu and Boulter impressed in their singles matches. Raducanu defeated Anna Blinkova 6-0, 6-3 in just over an hour, marking her first victory in nearly three months. She will face Sorana Cirstea in the next round. Boulter overcame Leyla Fernandez in a three-set match that spanned two days due to rain, and will now play Jaqueline Cristian.
Fans will have the opportunity to watch both players in their singles campaigns, but the lack of doubles coverage has left a sour taste for many British tennis enthusiasts.
