Tim Henman paid a heartfelt tribute to Andrew Castle following his final Wimbledon commentary for the BBC. Castle, who served as the corporation's lead television commentator at the Championships for 23 years, is departing after this summer's tournament. The announcement came before play began at the All England Club, with Castle discussing the change in an interview with The Times before the BBC confirmed it with an official statement.
Emotional Farewell on BBC One
Before bidding farewell to viewers, Castle received a warm send-off from Henman in an emotional live exchange on BBC One. The four-time Wimbledon semi-finalist said: "Andrew, I've got to head up to the studio now, but I want to take the opportunity to thank you so much for sharing the commentary box with you for so many years. You've been an absolute star, you've taught me so much, and I'll miss you a lot, but what a great way to finish off."
Castle responded: "I knew you when you were an annoying 14-year-old, and I've known you that whole time. Thanks for your company, and you, Andre." Andre Agassi and Henman joined Castle in the commentary box for the men's singles final, where Jannik Sinner successfully defended his title, defeating French Open champion Alexander Zverev 6-7, 7-6, 6-3, 6-4.
Castle's Parting Shot at the BBC
Earlier in the broadcast, Castle sent a parting shot to the BBC, claiming he'd been 'booted' out of his role. He said: "Yes, I am a bit sad about it, of course. I have fabulous memories, even working with John (Lloyd). And John is finishing as well, we're being put out to grass, I mean, that's it. Booted." Lloyd responded warmly: "I've had a good run. We were talking about it earlier. I started when there was still black-and-white TV, so it's been a while. You didn't start that young, you're much younger than me, and you were great to work with, and I loved every minute of it."
Castle signed off: "What a pleasure and a privilege it has been to watch him [Sinner] and [Carlos] Alcaraz and [Roger] Federer and [Novak] Djokovic and [Rafael] Nadal, and Andy Murray perhaps in particular, over the years. Take care and thank you."
