LONDON — Controversial Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios has reportedly been dropped from the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage lineup, with ESPN also opting not to include him in their broadcast team for the prestigious tournament. The decision comes amid ongoing concerns about Kyrgios’s off-court behavior and his limited playing time due to injuries.
Kyrgios, known for his explosive on-court antics and candid commentary, had been a fixture in the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage in recent years. However, sources indicate that the broadcaster has decided against renewing his contract for 2024. ESPN, which previously featured Kyrgios as an analyst during the Australian Open, has also excluded him from its Wimbledon roster.
Why Kyrgios Was Dropped
The decision to exclude Kyrgios appears to stem from multiple factors, including his lack of recent competitive play and concerns about his public image. The 29-year-old has played just one official match in the past 18 months due to persistent knee and wrist injuries, raising questions about his credibility as an analyst.
Additionally, Kyrgios’s history of fines, suspensions, and polarizing behavior may have influenced broadcasters’ decisions. A BBC insider told The Telegraph: "While Nick brings entertainment value, there were concerns about whether his persona aligns with the tone Wimbledon aims to uphold."
Controversies and Legal Issues
Kyrgios’s career has been marred by controversies, including:
- Frequent on-court outbursts, resulting in fines and suspensions
- A 2022 guilty plea for assaulting an ex-girlfriend (he avoided conviction under a good behavior bond)
- Public feuds with fellow players, including Novak Djokovic and Stan Wawrinka
These incidents have made Kyrgios a divisive figure in tennis. While some fans appreciate his unfiltered personality, others argue that his behavior undermines the sport’s professionalism.
Broadcasters Opt for Safer Choices
Both the BBC and ESPN have reportedly chosen more conventional analysts for their 2024 Wimbledon coverage. The BBC will rely on former champions like John McEnroe and Martina Navratilova, while ESPN has secured Roger Federer for select commentary appearances.
A sports media analyst explained: "Kyrgios is box office, but broadcasters are increasingly wary of polarizing figures. With Wimbledon’s traditional audience, they’re prioritizing credibility and decorum over controversy."
Kyrgios’s Future in Tennis
Despite the snub, Kyrgios remains a popular figure among younger fans. His podcast, "Good Trouble with Nick Kyrgios," has gained traction, and he has expressed interest in media roles post-retirement. However, his playing future remains uncertain.
In a recent Instagram post, Kyrgios hinted at a possible return, writing: "The fire’s still burning. I’ll be back when the body’s ready." Yet, with no confirmed tournaments on his schedule, his comeback timeline remains unclear.
Fan Reactions Mixed
The news of Kyrgios’s exclusion has sparked debate among tennis fans. Some applaud the decision, arguing that Wimbledon should distance itself from controversial figures. Others believe Kyrgios’s absence will diminish the tournament’s entertainment value.
One fan tweeted: "No Kyrgios at Wimbledon? That’s like having a party without music. Love him or hate him, he makes things exciting." Another countered: "Finally, some class restored to the commentary box."
Conclusion
Nick Kyrgios’s exclusion from the BBC and ESPN Wimbledon lineups marks a significant shift in how broadcasters view his role in tennis media. While his absence may disappoint some fans, it reflects a broader trend favoring stability over spectacle in sports broadcasting.
Whether Kyrgios can rehabilitate his image and return to the spotlight—either as a player or commentator—remains to be seen. For now, Wimbledon 2024 will proceed without one of its most unpredictable voices.