Tim Henman has paid tribute to Andrew Castle following the veteran commentator’s final appearance as part of the BBC team at Wimbledon. Castle’s departure was confirmed before the Championships, with the 2026 edition marking his last commentary stint. He chose to step away entirely after being informed he would not be commentating on next year’s final.
Castle has been a fixture at SW19 for 23 years, building a successful career in television and radio after his playing days concluded. His final match in the commentary box was the men’s final between Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev, which Sinner won in four sets. Henman and Andre Agassi were alongside Castle for this match.
A fitting farewell
Henman expressed that it was a fitting match to bid farewell to his long-time colleague. He thanked Castle for their many years together in the commentary box, acknowledging the lessons he had learned from him. Henman also mentioned he would miss Castle significantly, calling it a great way to conclude his tenure.
Castle and Henman previously shared the commentary box when Andy Murray ended a 73-year wait for a British winner of the men’s grass court grand slam. Castle recalled a memorable moment from that match in 2013, where an excited Henman elbowed him in the head as Murray sealed victory against Novak Djokovic.
Castle, who had known Henman since he was a teenager, thanked him for his company. He also reflected on the privilege of watching players like Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Roger Federer, Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and particularly Andy Murray over the years.
Castle’s departure and future plans
Castle revealed ahead of the tournament that the 2026 Wimbledon would be his last after the BBC informed him of a change in direction. He admitted feeling upset about his exit, especially as he had been the BBC’s lead commentator at Wimbledon since 2003.
During a segment before the men’s final, Castle was joined by John Lloyd and presenter Rishi Persad. Castle stated that he and Lloyd were being “put out to grass” and “booted” from the coverage. Lloyd, who will also not be part of next year’s coverage, joked about starting his career when television was still in black and white.
Castle described his feelings about leaving as very sad and disappointed, akin to a sense of grief due to the many memories accumulated over the years. He explained that the news was unexpected but delivered respectfully, with Phil Bernie from BBC Sport informing him of the decision to go in a different direction for next year’s final commentary.
After discussing it with his wife, Sophia, and children, Castle declined to remain part of the team for next year, believing that once he had done the final, everything else would be less significant. Andrew Cotter is anticipated to take over the lead commentary duties for the men’s final at Wimbledon next year, with John Lloyd also departing the BBC team.
Castle signed off his final commentary by thanking viewers for their company, expressing the pleasure and privilege it had been to witness the careers of many tennis greats.
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Source: independent.co.uk
Sam Whitlock is a Sports News Writer at News-GB.org. He moved from local newspapers into digital sport. He focuses on rugby union, golf and boxing and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Journalism from the University of Gloucestershire and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Gloucester, he plays amateur rugby and follows the fight game. “Clarity beats cleverness in breaking sport news.”