‘Very Strange’ – Nick Kyrgios Reacts to BBC Wimbledon Commentary Change

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Nick Kyrgios has disclosed that world No. 108 Christopher Eubanks is set to take over his role on the BBC`s coverage of Wimbledon this year.

The 30-year-old Kyrgios contributed commentary to the BBC during last year`s Championships. His presence offered a fresh perspective alongside established figures like John McEnroe and Tim Henman.

Despite receiving positive feedback from viewers, Kyrgios was not offered a spot on the BBC team for this year`s tournament.

The Australian player is expected to miss his third consecutive Wimbledon due to ongoing issues with knee and wrist injuries.

Kyrgios`s most recent match at the All England Club was the 2022 final, where he was defeated by Novak Djokovic in a four-set match.

Eubanks had his strongest showing at Wimbledon the following year, causing upsets against players such as Cameron Norrie and Stefanos Tsitsipas before losing to Daniil Medvedev in a five-set thriller in the quarter-finals.

Commenting on his exclusion from the BBC lineup this year, Kyrgios told The Guardian, “It’s unfortunate but it’s probably their loss more than mine.”

He then took a critical jab at his replacement: “I understand they’ve got Chris Eubanks but he hasn’t beaten the greatest of all time multiple times.”

Kyrgios expressed his bewilderment, stating, “When someone’s beaten Federer, Nadal, Murray and Djokovic and has incredible insights, it’s very strange you wouldn’t want that person adding knowledge to tennis fans.”

In addition to his commentary work for the BBC at Wimbledon, Kyrgios has also appeared on the Tennis Channel`s coverage in the United States.

Nick Kyrgios and a BBC sports reporter being interviewed at Wimbledon.
Kyrgios provided punditry for the BBC last year

Meanwhile, American player Eubanks has been balancing his competitive tennis career with extensive broadcasting work.

The former world No. 29 has previously worked for Tennis Channel, ESPN, and recently for TNT Sports during the French Open (Roland Garros).

Chris Eubanks, tennis player, sitting on a TV set.
Christopher Eubanks has plenty of broadcasting experience

Kyrgios remains open to the possibility of working with the BBC again in the future.

The former Australian Open men`s doubles champion commented, “I’m sure our paths will cross again. I only ever want to add humour, some knowledge and some great atmosphere.”

Due to injuries, Kyrgios has played only six singles matches since October 2022.

His last competitive appearance was in Miami in March, where he was defeated in the second round by Karen Khachanov.

Despite his current uncertain status, having withdrawn from both Roland Garros and Wimbledon, Kyrgios is determined to make a return during the US hard court swing, aiming for his first appearance at the US Open in three years.

He confirmed his intentions, stating, “Yes, for sure. I’m definitely playing the US swing and I’ll take it one day at a time.”

Nick Kyrgios hitting a backhand in a tennis match.
Kyrgios last played competitively three months ago in Miami
Oliver Thornton
Oliver Thornton

Oliver Thornton from Bristol has dedicated 12 years to sports journalism. He specializes in football and tennis, having covered all major European tournaments. He's renowned for his detailed tactical analysis and on-the-ground reporting.

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