BBC implement ‘never-been-seen-before’ Wimbledon change especially for Serena Williams
The BBC is trying something completely new at Wimbledon today, bringing courtside analysis to Centre Court for the very first time.
Former British tennis star Laura Robson will be stationed in a whisper position during Serena Williams’ highly anticipated first-round clash against Australian qualifier Maya Joint.
It’s a landmark moment for the broadcaster’s coverage of the Championships.
Williams, who has won seven Wimbledon titles, is making her return to singles competition after stepping away from the sport four years ago.
Serena Williams will make a sensational return to Wimbledon this afternoon
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REUTERS
The 44-year-old hasn’t played a singles match since the 2022 US Open, making this evening’s fixture one of the tournament’s most eagerly awaited encounters.
BBC Sport Director Alex Kay-Jelski unveiled the initiative on Tuesday morning, telling journalists: “We’re adding more analysis.
“You’ll see Laura, hopefully, in the courtside position today for Serena, which I know other broadcasters have done, but it’s good, it’s insight for Wimbledon, BBC Wimbledon viewers. It’s something new, something different. I think we should just try stuff.”
He pointed to the rapidly evolving sports media landscape as a driving force behind the decision.
“There is just so much more analysis now across all sports, tennis included,” Kay-Jelski explained, noting that visualised pods have become increasingly important and presenters now appear more relaxed on screen.
Laura Robson will provide courtside analysis at Centre Court
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GETTY
Robson is no stranger to this kind of role, having already worked courtside for TNT Sports during the French Open and for Sky Sports at the US Open as well as various ATP and WTA Tour events.
While other broadcasters have embraced live courtside analysis at major tournaments, it’s a fresh concept for Wimbledon’s coverage.
The setup will allow commentators to switch across to Robson during changeovers, giving viewers immediate insights while the players take their breaks.
The BBC has also brought in Jamie Murray and Eugenie Bouchard as part of a broader refresh of its punditry team this year.
The experiment does come with a potential hurdle, though. Centre Court is famously so quiet you could hear a pin drop, which might make whispered commentary tricky.
Kay-Jelski seemed entirely relaxed about the challenge when asked about noise concerns. “I guess we’ll find out,” he said.
“And again, you know, maybe later, you’ll go, ‘Oh, well done for trying. That was actually really insightful’.
“And maybe half of you will go, ‘What a waste of time’. That’s fine. The worst thing we can do is not try.”
The BBC recently secured broadcasting rights for Wimbledon through to 2033.
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