Andrew Castle, a veteran BBC Wimbledon commentator, was brought to tears by the flood of good luck messages he received from colleagues ahead of his final appearance at the Championships. The 62-year-old was informed before the tournament that this year's Wimbledon would be his last for the broadcaster, ending a 23-year tenure in the commentary box.
BBC Axe After 23 Years
Castle, who also played at Wimbledon twice reaching the second round, revealed that the BBC's decision was communicated to him personally and politely. Speaking to The Sun, he said: “The reason I’m going has got nothing to do with me. Genuinely, it was all very, very civil and very, very nice. They came to talk to me in person and said we’re going to head in a new direction for the final next year. And I accept that. I’m thankful for the years I’ve had.”
The BBC has faced pressure from the All England Club to freshen up its coverage, with the risk of losing the rights to another broadcaster. Castle admitted his sadness and disappointment, stating: “Am I sad? Of course, I’m sad about it. And I’m just disappointed about it. I still think I’ve got something to offer.”
Emotional Farewell
Castle was particularly moved by the messages from colleagues past and present. He added: “The messages I’ve had from colleagues and particularly from journalists, past and present, have moved me to tears. In the journalism business over the years, if your professional peers and colleagues are saying good things, that’s very moving. And I actually don’t want to read them because I’ve got to get through the final.”
Reflecting on his departure, Castle drew perspective from everyday life. He said: “There’s a sort of a strange feeling of you’re grieving for a job that’s no longer yours. I was feeling sorry for myself over the last 4-5 weeks. And then I went into town and I got the car washed, because I’m lazy. I saw the guys doing the car wash in nearly 40 degrees Celsius. A great bunch. They were working their backsides off, from 8am till 8pm. Then I went into Sainsbury’s and I asked somebody where something was and they smiled and they told me. Look, there’s real life. (Tennis) is a complete bubble. Let’s keep some perspective here. It’s been fantastic.”
