Roger Federer and Andy Murray led the tributes as Sue Barker’s Wimbledon final ended with an emotional send-off in front of cheering tennis fans.
The 66-year-old has stepped down after 30 years at the helm of live sports for the BBC.
During a discussion of Novak Djokovic’s victory over Nick Kyrgios in Sunday’s men’s singles final, former British No. 1 Tim Henman interrupted Barker to show her a montage looking back at her career with tributes from current and former players.
Eight-time Wimbledon champion Federer said “You made me cry” while Murray said “You will be missed by everyone who loves tennis”.
By the end, Barker was wiping away tears with a handkerchief, Henman’s arm around her, as Billie Jean King declared her the greatest presenter.
“She’s an amazing example – if you want to be an amazing presenter, if you want to be something in broadcasting – she’s THE GOAT [greatest of all time]” said the American 12-time Grand Slam singles champion.
Three-time Wimbledon champion John McEnroe, who had earlier given Barker “one last hug” on Center Court before the men’s final, told Barker she was “the Roger Federer of the broadcast world”.
Crowds had gathered near the rooftop studio where Barker was watching the video and erupted in chants of “Sue! Sue! Sue! Sue!” and sang “we love you Sue, we do you!”
Barker has presented a range of major events for the BBC – including tennis at Wimbledon and Queen’s, the Olympics, the Commonwealth Games, the World Athletics Championships, the London Marathon, the Grand National, Royal Ascot and Sports Personality of the Year.
A former world number three who won the French Open title in 1976, Barker also reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon in 1977 before embarking on a career in broadcasting which included covering huge moments such as Murray became the first British Wimbledon men’s champion in 77 years in 2013.
“It’s been an absolute privilege – I’ve loved it, 30 amazing years, thank you,” she said.
“I’m going to miss the job, I wish I had the next 30 years because I love it, but most of all I’m going to miss the people I work with in front of the camera, behind the camera. You have just been absolutely amazing.
“I was just so proud to lead the program. Thank you.”
Add Comment