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Wales Online
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
BBC stars' true feelings on John McEnroe as Wimbledon and tennis icon told to retire
BBC stars' true feelings on John McEnroe as Wimbledon and tennis icon told to retire John McEnroe has been the voice of Wimbledon for many years and has become a household name in British sports television - but the American has also been at the centre of a number of controversies John McEnroe is a divisive figure in the broadcasting world (Image: Rob Newell - CameraSport, CameraSport via Getty Images ) For many fans, Wimbledon's coverage on the BBC wouldn't be quite the same without the distinctive and knowledgeable commentary of John McEnroe. The US star has become a fixture in living rooms across the UK during the tournament's most thrilling matches on Centre Court. Since taking up broadcasting responsibilities at the All England Club in the early 2000s, the American legend has become as much a part of Wimbledon as the carefully mowed grass itself. The former world No. 1, now aged 66, dominated the men's tennis scene in the 1980s, clinching three Wimbledon titles and four US Open championships. Known as 'Superbrat' during his playing days, McEnroe hung up his racket in 1992 and has since provided expert analysis on the sport he once ruled. Despite being one of the BBC's highest-paid commentators, McEnroe's forthright style has split opinion. His candid commentary and unparalleled expertise have earned him acclaim, but he has also faced criticism for what some perceive as "disrespect" towards certain players. Nevertheless, those who have worked alongside McEnroe speak highly of his commitment to his role as an analyst. Former BBC host Sue Barker recently lauded her ex-colleague in her 2024 memoir, Wimbledon: A Personal History. "Mac is the BBC's highest-paid employee pro rata, and with good reason. The public love him. He was great to work with, always up for fun," she wrote. Article continues below Sue Barker (L) was full of praise for McEnroe (Image: Getty ) Another of McEnroe's peers at the BBC, commentator Andrew Castle, concurred with Barker's sentiments. "John is a wonderfully, funny and well-weather guy," he told Globusbet. "I can tell you this, when he is into a match and is concentrating and is engaged whilst enjoying it, there is no one to match. It's a thrill to sit there and listen to what he has to say." Even Pat Cash, the Australian icon and one-time adversary on the circuit, paid homage to McEnroe – although the Wimbledon champion of 1987 couldn't help but aim a jibe at the American's commentary prowess, reports the Express. In their encounter at Wimbledon in 2024, McEnroe said: "Cashy, it's great to see you in person, I've watched you on TV, but it is great to see you guys." In response, Cash jested, "Likewise, I've watched you on TV... until I can get to the off button." Dave Gordon, the ex-executive editor of BBC Sport and previously at the helm of Wimbledon broadcasts, once told The Daily Telegraph that McEnroe had single-handedly dragged the corporation's coverage of SW19 "kicking and screaming into the 21st century." McEnroe has sparked controversy from the commentary booth over the years (Image: Getty ) In an article for the BBC in 2007, Clive James lauded McEnroe's ability to enchant audiences, stating that he's "so interesting" behind the microphone that the presence of an "accompanied by an actual match" is almost superfluous. He went further to crown McEnroe as the "supreme male commentator" at Wimbledon and even described him as a "philosopher". McEnroe has faced backlash of late however. Some tennis fans have criticised him for mispronouncing players' names and seemingly lacking his usual depth of knowledge during tournaments. Whilst juggling duties for both the BBC and ESPN, a few American viewers expressed disappointment with his commentary at this year's event. On social media, one frustrated viewer said: "I see John McEnroe is at it again. If ESPN won't retire him, can we at least compromise and keep him off broadcasts until the semif-inals where he'll actually know the players?". Another voiced their concern, saying: "Why does John McEnroe have so little respect for other, 'lesser' players that he does not bother learning how to pronounce their names?". Pat Cash once had a light jibe at McEnroe's expense (Image: Getty ) Moreover, McEnroe has had his fair share of on-air disagreements with BBC Wimbledon host Clare Balding, most notably a heated debate about Novak Djokovic in 2024. Formerly, a controversial comment regarding "swingers" landed him in trouble, and a brutal remark about Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva this year have drawn further ire from co-commentators and viewers. A minor clash with BBC's Simon Reed also occurred over remarks made about British star Jack Draper. Additionally, McEnroe's salary has prompted discussions, as he remains amongst the BBC's highest-paid commentators for his two-week role at the Championships. The BBC's salary report from the previous year disclosed that John McEnroe's earnings ranged between £195,000 and £199,000 for the 2023/24 period, indicating a modest decrease from his earlier income of £205,000. Nevertheless, McEnroe's daily remuneration during Wimbledon is believed to be around £14,000. Article continues below A source from within the BBC divulged to The Times in 2023 the reasons behind the American tennis legend's lucrative fee, stating: "He is one of the most popular and respected pundits in tennis," and adding: "He provides a unique perspective to our coverage."
Wales Online
13-07-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
John McEnroe stops Clare Balding during BBC's Wimbledon coverage – 'Not going to happen!'
John McEnroe stops Clare Balding during BBC's Wimbledon coverage – 'Not going to happen!' Iga Swiatek made light work of Amanda Anisimova in the Wimbledon final, and it's fair to say John McEnroe didn't see the result materialising that way after shooting down Clare Balding John McEnrow cut off Clare Balding to make a point on BBC's commentary ahead of Saturday's Wimbledon final (Image: Rob Newell - CameraSport, CameraSport via Getty Images ) Commentator Clare Balding might be owed an apology from John McEnroe after he dismissed her prediction before Iga Swiatek's emphatic Wimbledon final win. The Polish sensation dispatched Amanda Anisimova with a stunning 6-0, 6-0 scoreline on Saturday, securing her maiden title at SW19 in dominant fashion. The victory was even more commanding than Swiatek's 6-2, 6-0 semi-final drubbing of Belinda Bencic—a performance so authoritative that McEnroe couldn't see it being repeated. That's despite Balding's pre-match suggestion of another potential clean sweep for Swiatek should she hit top form once again on Centre Court. "And that match against Bencic, she [Swiatek] just didn't put a foot wrong," said the BBC host just before the final began (via Daily Express). "I mean, that was near-perfect tennis. And if she plays like that [against Anisimova], this could be over very quickly." Certainly, Anisimova had given reason to believe she could mount a significant challenge after her semi-final triumph over world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka. After all, logic usually dictates a lower seed would equal a lesser task, but not in the case of Swiatek, who had her trophy taken away after Saturday's big win. However, McEnroe took particular umbrage to the idea that his compatriot would be so easily dismissed. And he interrupted Balding mid-speech before shooting down the notion. Article continues below "Totally different matchup. Completely different," he interjected. "That ain't gonna happen. If that happens, I'll eat one of those pastas!" McEnroe shot down Balding's suggestion that Swiatek could repeat the dominance she displayed against Belinda Bencic (Image: Getty ) The meal in question is Swiatek's unique indulgence of choice at Wimbledon: a bowl of pasta with strawberries. The five-time Grand Slam winner, who received some kind words from Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales after her win, disclosed her guilty pleasure earlier in the competition, urging viewers to taste it before passing judgement. Strawberries are part and parcel of Wimbledon tradition. But many a fan turned their nose up in disgust after hearing about the sweet-and-savoury concoction. Balding was eager to witness McEnroe consume the dubious dish, responding with enthusiasm: "The pasta with strawberry and yoghurt awaits!" As it turns out, it seems McEnroe will have to accompany his meal with a generous helping of humble pie. Indeed, Swiatek secured victory in the final even more convincingly than her semi-final sweep over Bencic. Anisimova's crushing defeat signalled the first double-bagel finale at Wimbledon since 1911. The American now faces pressure to serve his forfeit of eating pasta and strawberries (Image: Getty ) Such a rare result emphasised how lopsided the final had been. Commentators even observed in real time Anisimova being stunned after reaching her first Grand Slam final and struggling to hit top gear as a result. Her performance swung drastically from her previous triumph against Sabalenka, where she perhaps exhausted her energy supplies. While five-time major winner Swiatek is seasoned in Grand Slams, there was a sense Anisimova had peaked in the semis. Article continues below A meagre consolation from her lacklustre showing is the prospect of McEnroe possibly having to concede he was wrong. As a result, Swiatek may not be alone in savouring some post-Wimbledon pasta and strawberries.
New York Post
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New York Post
Kate Middleton returns to Wimbledon, receives emotional standing ovation
Kate Middleton's latest outing is an ace. The Princess of Wales, 43, attended Wimbledon for the first time this year. She stepped out to watch American tennis player Amanda Anisimova and Poland's Iga Swiatek face off in the women's singles final on Saturday. In a video posted to Wimbledon's X account, the Princess received a standing ovation as she walked down the stairs to her royal box at Centre Court. The crowd stood on their feet and erupted in loud clapping and cheering as Middleton sweetly smiled and waved to everyone. Advertisement 11 Kate Middleton waves to the crowd at Wimbledon. WireImage 11 Kate Middleton receives a standing ovation at Wimbledon 2025. CameraSport via Getty Images She was joined in the box by tennis stars Billie Jean King and Martina Navratilova. Advertisement 'Centre Court rises to give a warm welcome to our Patron HRH The Princess of Wales,' the caption read. Middleton sported a cream blazer top and matching skirt. She wore her long, brown hair down in soft waves. 11 The Princess of Wales watches the match from her box. CameraSport via Getty Images 11 Kate Middleton chats with tennis legend Billie Jean King. AFP via Getty Images Advertisement The Princess is a longtime fan of the distinguished tennis tournament. She has attended the matches every year since tying the knot with Prince William, 43, in 2011. In 2016, the late Queen Elizabeth appointed Middleton as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. The royal has only missed two Wimbledon tournaments. The first being in 2013, when she was pregnant with Prince George, 11, and the second happened when the games were canceled due to the pandemic in 2020. 11 Kate Middleton wears a cream blazer top and a long, matching skirt. AFP via Getty Images Advertisement Last year, while attending Wimbledon with her daughter Princess Charlotte, 9, and sister Pippa Middleton, 41, Princess Catherine received a standing ovation. At the time, lip reader Jeremy Freeman analyzed the moment Middleton sat down while Centre Court erupted into applause. Freeman told The Sun that she said 'hi' to fellow spectators, before turning to the lady next to her and calling the audience's reaction 'so sweet.' 11 The Princess of Wales greets families amid her arrival at Wimbledon. POOL/AFP via Getty Images The crowd was so pleased to see the Princess since she was undergoing cancer treatment at the time. In March 2024, the philanthropist revealed she was being treated for an undisclosed type of cancer. Middleton kept largely out of the spotlight in the months that followed. In September, the mom of three thanked those who supported her and shared a positive update on her health. 'As the summer comes to an end, I cannot tell you what a relief it is to have finally completed my chemotherapy treatment,' she expressed at the time. 'The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown.' Advertisement 11 The Princess of Wales watches the match. CameraSport via Getty Images In January, Middleton revealed on Instagram, 'It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focused on recovery.' 'As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal,' she added. 'I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support.' Earlier this month, Middleton, who is also mom to Prince Louis, 6, got candid about post-cancer life. Advertisement 11 The Princess of Wales waves to the crowd. Getty Images While visiting Colchester Hospital in Essex, England, on July 2, she detailed getting back into her daily routine. 'You put on a sort of brave face, stoicism through treatment,' Middleton shared. 'Treatment's done, then it's like, 'I can crack on, get back to normal,' but actually, the phase afterwards is really, really difficult.' 'You're not necessarily under the clinical team any longer, but you're not able to function normally at home as you perhaps once used to,' Middleton added. Advertisement 11 Kate Middleton speaks to Martina Navratilova. Getty Images 'And actually, someone to help talk you through that, show you and guide you through that sort of phase that comes after treatment, I think is really valuable.' Middleton also encouraged those in similar positions to find their 'new normal.' She noted it 'takes time…and it's a roller coaster, it's not smooth, like you expect it to be. But the reality is you go through hard times.' Advertisement In recent months, Middleton has been out and about for a slew of royal engagements. 11 Catherine Princess of Wales visits the RHS's Wellbeing Garden at Colchester Hospital in Essex. Stefan Rousseau-PA/POOL supplied by Splash News / She stunned in sky blue while at Trooping the Colour in London last month. Middleton, Prince William and their three kids attended the celebration to honor King Charles, 76, for the third year in a row. On Tuesday, the Prince and Princess of Wales attended the French state dinner together, with Middleton dazzling in a red Givenchy by Sarah Burton silk gown and a diamond tiara. However, Middleton was absent from Prince William's charity polo match on Friday. The Out-Sourcing Inc. Royal Charity Polo Cup 2025 took place at the Guards Polo Club in Windsor and raised money for various charities and causes. 11 Kate Middleton and Prince William at the State Banquet at Windsor Castle. Getty-PA/POOL supplied by Splash News / This year's match marked William's 14th time playing for the cup. Middleton last attended the polo match in July 2023, where she supported her husband from the sidelines.
Wales Online
07-07-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Carlos Alcaraz says 'I saw him' as late-night Cameron Norrie observation emerges
Carlos Alcaraz says 'I saw him' as late-night Cameron Norrie observation emerges Cam Norrie faces off against Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon in the quarter-finals in SW19 on Tuesday Cameron Norrie faces Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon in the quarter-finals (Image: Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images ) Cameron Norrie is still flying the flag for Britain at this year's Wimbledon and he is now set to face the daunting task of Carlos Alcaraz in the quarter-finals. The defending champion, fresh from his Grand Slam win in Paris last month, will lock horns with Norrie on Centre Court on Tuesday afternoon. Both players had to dig deep for their place in the last eight, with Norrie seeing off Nicolas Jarry in a four-hour epic on Sunday. There was a bit of needle between the pair too, with an animated handshake taking place after the match concluded. 'For both of us, we really wanted to win the match,' said Norrie. 'Yeah, I think it was obviously frustrating for him to lose. I just told him, 'Man, that was unbelievable level. You competed so well, and I loved the way you kind of responded'. "It was such a good match. The atmosphere was really good. 'I think he just said I was being a little bit too vocal, but I was aiming directly at my team and pulling from the crowd. The atmosphere of the court was so, so good. Article continues below 'Honestly, nothing but credit to Nico for his performance. And to see him not only playing at that level, you know, seeing him enjoying his tennis and coming through quallies so easily and dropping guys, so I wish him all the best. 'I guess we both really wanted to win. It was a huge match, so I can understand where he's coming from.' Alcaraz, meanwhile, had to come from a set down to beat Andrey Rublev 6-7 (5-7) 6-3 6-4 6-4 under the lights on Centre Court. He now faces Norrie, whom he was beaten in four of their six career meetings - although the latter won their most recent battle in the final of the Rio Open in 2023. The Spaniard says he has already spotted the lengths Norrie is going to to improve his game, catching him practising night and day at Queen's recently. 'Facing Cam is always really, really difficult,' said Alcaraz. 'We have really difficult battles already. 'For me facing him is almost a nightmare, to be honest. Really tough from the baseline. I'm not surprised he's in the quarter-final playing great tennis because I've seen him practicing. 'When he lost at Queen's, he stayed for five days practising morning, afternoon and night. "I saw him. So I'm not surprised at all seeing his level. Article continues below "So it's going to be really different. 'He's playing at home, as well, so he's going to use the crowd on his side. I have to be really strong mentally and focused to play good tennis if I want to beat him.'
Wales Online
06-07-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Wimbledon star lifts up her skirt in dress code spat with umpire on court
Wimbledon star lifts up her skirt in dress code spat with umpire on court Jelena Ostapenko was involved in a bizarre incident during her doubles match at Wimbledon on Saturday, as the Latvian was questioned by the umpire over her outfit Jelena Ostapenko was involved in a clothing dispute with an umpire (Image: Rob Newell - CameraSport, CameraSport via Getty Images ) Jelena Ostapenko lifted her skirt in a strange clothing dispute with an umpire at Wimbledon, while stunned fans watched on. The Latvian was getting ready for a doubles encounter when Jamie Crowson approached her with what appeared to be concerns about her clothing. Ostapenko had taken to the court with partner Hsieh Su-wei for their second-round battle against Marta Kostyuk and Elena-Gabriela Ruse when the official seemed to raise objections to her outfit during the warm-up phase. Following the umpire's approach and subsequent exchange, an exasperated Ostapenko gestured with frustration before lifting her skirt to reveal she was wearing green undershorts, which comply with the tournament's clothing regulations. Wimbledon maintains a rigorous all-white clothing policy, though modifications were made prior to the 2023 championships to permit female competitors to wear dark-coloured undershorts, helping to reduce potential concerns during menstruation, reports the Mirror. All England Club Chief Executive Sally Bolton said at the time: "We are committed to supporting the players and listening to their feedback as to how they can perform at their best. Article continues below Ostapenko lifted up her skirt after being asked about her outfit (Image: Eurosport ) "I'm pleased to confirm that, following consultation with players and representatives of several stakeholder groups, the Committee of Management has taken the decision to update the white clothing rule at Wimbledon. "This means that from next year, women and girls competing at The Championships will have the option of wearing coloured undershorts if they choose. "It is our hope that this rule adjustment will help players focus purely on their performance by relieving a potential source of anxiety." Following their victory, Ostapenko and Hsieh are set to face Ekaterina Alexandrova and Zhang Shuai in the third round on Sunday. Ostapenko's journey in the women's singles and mixed doubles at Wimbledon, meanwhile, has come to an end. She suffered a first-round defeat by Britain's Sonay Kartal 7-5, 2-6, 6-2 on Monday and a second-round exit followed in the mixed doubles alongside her partner against Taylor Townsend and Evan King. Article continues below The 28-year-old boasts a Grand Slam title from the 2017 French Open, where she triumphed over Simona Halep in the final with scores of 4–6, 6–4, 6–3. She also made it to the semi-finals at Wimbledon in 2018 but was bested by Angelique Kerber, who went on to win the tournament.
