BBC's 88-Year Wimbledon Monopoly Just Got Cracked (And I'm Here for It)

By Lewis Barnett 9 June, 2025 5 mins read 44 Views

Listen. I've been watching Wimbledon coverage since I was twelve years old, sprawled on my mum's sofa with a bowl of strawberries, pretending I understood why everyone whispered like they were in church.

Now Eurosport just waltzed in and snagged the singles finals. After 88 bloody years of BBC dominance.

The deal runs five years and includes a nightly 90-minute highlights package from SW19. But here's the kicker - Eurosport is now bragging they're the "only channel in the UK to show live coverage of all four major singles prizes." That's Wimbledon, plus the French, US, and Australian Opens. Pretty bold claim, considering they're technically the secondary broadcaster here.

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Wait, Secondary What Now?

Before you panic-text your tennis-obsessed mate, the BBC isn't going anywhere. They're still Wimbledon's main domestic broadcaster, thanks to some Ofcom Listed Events regulations that allow for "secondary broadcasters" at major sporting events. Eurosport is basically the plus-one at this wedding.

The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) signed deals with both networks. Smart move, honestly - why leave money on the table?

Rob Curling's 10pm Tennis Party

Former Sky Sports presenter Rob Curling will host Eurosport's nightly highlights from 10pm. I remember watching him back in 2019 during some random ATP match - solid presenter, knows his stuff. Should be interesting to see how he handles the Wimbledon atmosphere.

Susanna Dinnage, MD of Discovery Networks UK and Ireland, says this deal "cements" Eurosport's "position as the Home of Grand Slam Tennis in the UK." Bold words. We'll see if viewers buy it.

Murray Might Be Back (As a Pundit This Time)

This year's tournament runs from Monday June 30 to Sunday July 13. And here's something that made me smile - Britain's two-time SW19 champion Andy Murray could return as a BBC pundit after ending his six-month coaching stint with Novak Djokovic.

God, imagine Murray in the commentary box. The man who gave us some of the most emotionally charged Wimbledon moments of the past decade, now breaking down serves and volleys for the cameras.

Poor BBC though. They're still paying around £60 million a year for the privilege of being Wimbledon's main broadcaster. That's serious money, even for them.

The Real Winners Here

Carlos Alcaraz will be back to defend his 2024 title (fresh off his French Open win on Sunday), and Czech star Barbora Krejcikova will return as the defending women's champion.

But honestly? Tennis fans are the real winners. More coverage, different perspectives, and Rob Curling's late-night highlights show.

The grass-court tournament still holds pride of place in BBC's sporting lineup. But now we get options.

And after 88 years of monopoly... it's about time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of tennis?

Tennis has its origins in the 12th century France. Monks used their hands to hit a ball called jeu de paume, which was played on courtyards of monasteries. Tennis evolved over time as rackets became available. In the 16th-century, the game had become popular among European nobility. Tennis has seen many changes over the years, such as the introduction of lawn-tennis in the nineteenth century and the standardization of rules.

What role has tennis icons played in the popularization of the sport?

Tennis icons play a key role in the popularization of the sport around world. Throughout its history, charismatic and skilled players like Billie Jean King, Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg, Martina Navratilova, Pete Sampras, Serena Williams, and Roger Federer have captured the public's imagination. Their achievements on the court and personalities off it have not only drawn fans to the game but also inspired younger generations of players to take up this sport. Their legacy extends beyond their titles. They have shaped tennis culture and the marketplace.

How have women's contributions to tennis shaped the sport?

Women have shaped tennis significantly, both through on-court performances and off-court advocacy for equality and recognition. Billie Jean King's tireless efforts to promote equal prize-money and professional opportunities for female tennis players led to the Women's Tennis Association's (WTA's) formation in 1973. Steffi Grat, Venus and Serena Williams and Martina Navratilova are icons who have helped to raise the profile of tennis with their talent. The sport is popular with both men and women.

What are the four Grand Slam tournaments in tennis?

The four Grand Slam tournaments, also known as the Majors, are the most prestigious events in professional tennis. The Australian Open takes place every January, followed by the French Open and Wimbledon in May, June, and July. Finally, the US Open and Australian Open take place in August and September. The tournaments are renowned for their level of competition, history, and significant prize money and ranking points. Grand Slams are considered to be one of the most prestigious achievements in tennis.

What is the meaning of the grass courts?

Wimbledon's grass courts are unique in tennis because it is the last Grand Slam to be played on this surface. The grass courts are a great surface for a fast-paced, low-bouncing tennis game that tests the player's abilities in countless ways. Wimbledon began in 1877, but is now known by its official name, The Championships of Wimbledon. It has a long history and a strict dress code. Wimbledon's legendary lawns are considered by many to be the pinnacle of tennis career.

Statistics

Lawn tennis, which evolved into the game we know today, adapted its point system from the jeu de paume, with theories suggesting its increments represent the face of a clock.
Major Walter Clopton Wingfield is often credited with pioneering the rules of modern tennis in 1873, and his version of the game was patented under the name "Sphairistikè."
The global tennis equipment market reached an estimated value of over 1 billion dollars, reflecting the sport's widespread popularity.
The modern game of tennis originated in England in the late 19th century, with the first Wimbledon Championship held in 1877.
The four Grand Slam tournaments collectively attract over 3.5 million spectators in person, highlighting tennis's enduring appeal.

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How To

Tennis Shoes: Choose the best shoes for your court surface

Tennis shoes can be selected based on what surface you prefer to play on. Players on hard surfaces should opt for soles with durable constructions. Clay court shoes usually feature a herringbone pattern for better grip and control. Grass court shoes often have nubs or pimpled soles to provide traction without damaging the court. To avoid injury and to improve your movement on the courts, make sure you have the right fit and support.