The live broadcasts of the Wimbledon singles finals are shifting to a rival channel, ending the BBC`s long-standing exclusive coverage and marking a significant change in broadcasting rights. This gives the competing broadcaster a prominent event.
In May 2024, Eurosport extended its five-year agreement with the All England Club, securing broadcast rights that included the men`s and women`s singles finals.
The agreement also included a daily 90-minute package featuring highlights from the tournament at SW19.
However, Eurosport ceased broadcasting in February this year following its acquisition by TNT Sports.
Consequently, TNT Sports inherited these television rights and will broadcast the Wimbledon finals for the first time.
The BBC will continue as Wimbledon`s primary domestic broadcaster, upholding its 88-year legacy of coverage.
Both the BBC and TNT Sports hold separate agreements with the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) regarding coverage.
Ofcom`s “Listed Events” regulations permit the involvement of “secondary broadcasters” for significant sporting events.
This is the capacity in which TNT Sports will operate under its agreement with the AELTC for Wimbledon.
This year`s Wimbledon tournament is scheduled from Monday, June 30th to Sunday, July 13th.
British two-time Wimbledon champion Andy Murray might return as a BBC commentator following his six-month coaching role with Novak Djokovic.
The grass-court championships remain a highly valued fixture in the BBC`s sports coverage.
However, securing these rights costs the BBC approximately £60 million annually.
Carlos Alcaraz will aim for his second consecutive Wimbledon title after defeating Novak Djokovic in last year`s final.
Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic seeks an eighth Wimbledon title, which would equal Roger Federer`s record.
And world number one Jannik Sinner will hope to rebound from his French Open final loss to mount a strong challenge.
