LONDON — Former British tennis star and popular television pundit Laura Robson is reportedly in advanced talks with TNT Sports for a surprise new role that would see her take on a significantly expanded broadcasting portfolio. The move comes as the 30-year-old continues to solidify her reputation as one of the most insightful and engaging voices in sports media.
According to industry sources, the discussions center on Robson becoming a lead presenter and analyst for TNT's enhanced coverage of the US Open, a role that would mark a major step up in her burgeoning broadcasting career. This potential shift is particularly notable given Robson's recent high-profile work with the BBC at Wimbledon, where she has become a fixture of their studio analysis.
From Court to Commentary Box: A Seamless Transition
Robson’s journey from a Grand Slam-winning junior and Olympic silver medalist to a respected pundit has been widely praised. Forced into early retirement in 2022 due to a persistent hip injury, she quickly transitioned into media, bringing with her a modern player's perspective that resonates with audiences. Her analytical depth, coupled with a relaxed and personable on-screen manner, has made her a standout talent.
A source close to the negotiations told The Telegraph, "Laura has impressed everyone with her work ethic and natural ability in front of the camera. TNT sees her as a key part of their future plans for tennis coverage. The talks are very positive and a deal is expected to be finalized soon."
Breaking the "Donald Trump Rule" at Wimbledon
Robson recently made headlines not just for her analysis, but for her interviewing prowess. During the 2024 Wimbledon Championships, she conducted a now-famous courtside interview with Coco Gauff immediately after the American’s thrilling comeback victory against fellow compatriot Emma Navarro. In a move that broke an unspoken broadcast convention often humorously referred to by the BBC team as the "Donald Trump rule," Robson opted for a raw, emotional conversation rather than a structured, political-style interview.
The so-called "rule" – a lighthearted reference to avoiding long, rambling answers by asking short, direct questions – was set aside as Robson allowed Gauff to fully express her emotions and articulate her thought process during the pivotal moments of the match. The result was television gold: a genuine, captivating moment that offered viewers a real insight into the mind of a champion.
Reflecting on the interview later on the BBC podcast, Robson explained her philosophy: "I think you just have to go with it... You can't cut someone off when they're in that moment. For me, it's about catching that raw emotion. That's what people at home want to see." This approach, prioritizing authenticity over rigid formatting, has become a hallmark of her style and is likely a key reason for TNT's interest.
What a Move to TNT Sports Would Entail
A deal with TNT Sports (formerly BT Sport) would represent a significant expansion of Robson's responsibilities. While her role with the BBC is primarily focused on the Wimbledon fortnight, TNT holds the exclusive live broadcast rights for the Premier League in the UK, as well as extensive coverage of:
- The UEFA Champions League and Europa League
- MotoGP and WWE
- And, crucially, exclusive live coverage of the US Open.
This move could see Robson branching out from tennis, potentially featuring on their coverage of other major sporting events and becoming a broader sports presenter. Her potential duties are expected to include:
- Lead court-side presenting and analysis during the US Open.
- Hosting studio shows and conducting post-match interviews.
- Contributing to their coverage of other major tournaments.
A New Generation of Broadcasting Talent
Robson is part of a new wave of former athletes, including the likes of retired British number one Johanna Konta, who are moving into punditry and bringing a fresh, informed perspective to sports broadcasting. Their recent experience on tour allows them to dissect tactics, pressure, and mentality with a credibility that deeply connects with viewers. A production insider noted, "Laura gets it. She knows what the players are going through because she was there so recently. She asks the questions fans want asked and explains things in a way that’s easy to understand but never patronizing."
The Future of Tennis Coverage
While the BBC is understood to be keen to retain Robson for its Wimbledon coverage, an exclusive full-time contract with TNT Sports would likely limit her availability for other broadcasters. This potential shift underscores the competitive nature of sports broadcasting rights and the ongoing battle for top on-air talent. A decision is expected in the coming weeks, ahead of the final Grand Slam of the year in New York. If the deal is completed, tennis fans can expect to see much more of Laura Robson’s insightful and engaging commentary for years to come.