Tennis fans and fellow commentators are paying tribute to John Lloyd after the commentating legend announced his retirement Wimbledon. The 71-year-old has been a mainstay of the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage for more than two decades but announced after the men’s doubles final that he would not return next year.
There is a changing of the guard at the BBC with Lloyd, Andrew Castle and Joe Dury leaving. Sue Barker called her last Wimbledon for the BBC in 2022 before calling it quits.
John Lloyd has retired from television commentating after more than 20 years. Image: John Lloyd/Getty
Australian commentator Todd Woodbridge announced Lloyd’s retirement after the final point in the doubles final. “Before we get to the presentation, it’s worth saying something about you, Lloydy,” Woodbridge said. “This may be my last chance to sit in the communications booth with you, it was an absolute pleasure.”
A former UK number one player and Davis Cup captain, Lloyd reached the final of the Australian Open in 1977. More than 20 years later, he refuses to comment, saying Telegraph: “I don’t regret anything. I’m very lucky to have done this. I’m lucky.
“It’s strange for me to play my last match, but I’m happy because it was a really good trip. I can’t even tell you if I’m 25 or 27 right now because I’m not very good at dating. But I think I must have started when it was black and white television.
“It’s a different audience now. Much more analytics. The stats are going left, right and center.”
John Lloyd contributed to the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage for more than two decades. Image: Getty
The tennis world pays tribute to John Lloyd
Lloyd’s son Aiden wrote on social media: “Congratulations on your retirement, Dad! Covering Wimbledon will never be the same. Now maybe we can spend Father’s Day together!”
American legend Tracy Austin wrote: “Congratulations on a great career at the BBC. Too many dressing room laughs to count!”
Another person commented: “Enjoy your retirement John. Your comment will probably be missed. Always knowledgeable and entertaining, it’s a great loss for the BBC.”
Another added: “I applaud you John. Congratulations on a legendary career and a well-deserved retirement.”
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