Reports indicate that controversial tennis player Nick Kyrgios will not be included in the BBC`s broadcast team for Wimbledon in 2025. This decision follows significant criticism surrounding his appointment to the commentary team for the prestigious tournament last year.
The backlash in 2023 was largely connected to Kyrgios having admitted to assaulting a former girlfriend approximately a year prior. According to The Telegraph, the outspoken Australian player was also not part of the BBC`s coverage for Wimbledon this year (2024), separate from his inability to compete as a player.
The 30-year-old had planned to return to the All England Club courts this year, which would have been his first time playing there since reaching the final in 2022, where he lost to Novak Djokovic. However, the player often dubbed the “tennis bad boy” confirmed his withdrawal due to a persistent injury setback.
Sharing an update on Instagram, Kyrgios wrote: “Just wanted to give everyone a quick update – I’ve hit a small setback in my recovery and unfortunately won’t make it back for grass season this year. I know how much you’ve all been looking forward to seeing me out there, and I’m genuinely sorry to disappoint. This is just a bump in the road though, and I’m already working hard to get back stronger than ever. Thank you for all your continued support – it means everything to me. See you soon!”
It is also reported that Kyrgios will not be continuing his commentary work with American broadcaster ESPN for this year`s Wimbledon. He has previously served as a pundit for ESPN, including during the Australian Open.
Last year, his hiring by the BBC attracted considerable condemnation from prominent figures, including senior Members of Parliament and women`s advocacy groups. Caroline Nokes, who chairs the Women and Equalities Committee, strongly stated that the broadcaster should “hang its head in shame” over the decision.
In response at the time, the BBC issued a statement defending their position: “We are in no way condoning his cited previous actions or behaviours, on and off the court, and he is employed to share his views on tennis only. He has provided similar services to other major sports broadcasters in recent months. The legal process he was involved in has concluded, is well documented, and he has spoken about it publicly.”
In February 2023, Kyrgios pleaded guilty to assaulting his former girlfriend, Chiara Passari. However, a magistrate in Canberra, Australia, characterized the incident, which took place in 2021, as “a single act of stupidity or frustration” and decided against recording a criminal conviction.
