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 from the commentary box was confirmed ahead of the Championships, with the former British No 1 choosing 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 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 suitable match for his long-time colleague’s farewell. He thanked Castle for their many years together in the commentary box, stating, “You’ve been an absolute star, you’ve taught me so much and I’ll miss you a lot. What a great way to finish off.”
Castle and Henman were together in 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 humorous incident from that moment, mentioning that Henman, in his excitement, elbowed him in the head when Murray secured victory over Novak Djokovic in 2013.
Castle, reflecting on his career, said to Henman, “I knew you when you were an annoying 14-year-old and I’ve known you that whole time. Thanks for your company, Tim, all the best and take care.” He also acknowledged the pleasure and privilege of watching players like Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Roger Federer, Djokovic, Rafael Nadal, and particularly Andy Murray over the years.
Departure from the BBC team
Castle openly stated his sadness and disappointment regarding his exit from the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage. He revealed that he was told the BBC would be moving in a different direction for the final next year, and while they offered him a role as part of the team, he declined. He explained that after having commentated on the final, other roles felt less significant.
The broadcaster reportedly intends to replace Castle with Andrew Cotter as the lead commentator for next year’s men’s final. John Lloyd will also be departing from the BBC team. Lloyd, who joined Castle and presenter Rishi Persad before the men’s final, shared that he had a good run, having started when there was still black and white television.
Castle’s children were eight and ten when he did his first Wimbledon final, and they are now married, with one having children and another expecting. He signed off his final commentary by saying, “That’s that from me, thank you very much for your company.”
He expressed that there is a sense of grief associated with leaving due to the many memories accumulated over his time. He confirmed that the news of his role change was delivered respectfully after a phone call that suggested a change was coming.
Castle’s final match as part of the BBC team at Wimbledon was the men’s final between Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev.
Andrew Cotter is expected to take on lead commentary duties for the men’s final at Wimbledon next year.
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Source: independent.co.uk
As News-UK's Sports News Writer, Oscar Pennington reports on rugby union, golf and boxing for readers across the country. He built a reputation for sharp explainer pieces on regional sport. He holds a degree in Journalism from Nottingham Trent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Oscar lives in Nottingham, where he follows the pro golf tour and amateur boxing. “Context is what turns a result into a story.”
