Iconic Wimbledon presenter given BBC tribute as replacement confirmed | Tennis | Sport
Carol Kirkwood was previously the BBC’s weather presenter during Wimbledon (Image: BBC)
BBC presenter Isa Guha has led tributes to former weather presenter Carol Kirkwood who is not part of the broadcaster’s coverage for the tournament this year.
Thousands of tennis enthusiasts will descend upon SW19 over the coming fortnight as the Wimbledon Championships get underway for another year.
Isa Guha returned to front the early morning BBC broadcasts on Monday (June 29), appearing alongside Tim Henman and Anne Keothavong. However, one BBC regular won’t be joining them as part of the breodcaster’s coverage this year.
Carol Kirkwood, who traditionally presents the weather throughout the Championships, will not feature on screen this year, having stepped away from her role on BBC Breakfast in April.
Following a remarkable 28-year stint, Kirkwood revealed her retirement plans, citing her desire to prioritise her marriage and travel across the globe.
Guha paid tribute to Kirkwood within minutes of Monday’s Wimbledon coverage beginning, remarking: “Now, this is normally the time in the show that we head across to Carol Kirkwood for a British weather update, especially here in the sunshine.
“It would have been great to see her, but after 28 years on BBC Breakfast, Carol has moved on. So, we wish you all the best, Carol. Hopefully you’ve got your feet up on the sofa with a cup of tea to enjoy the tennis this week.”
EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
Revealing Kirkwood replacements, Guha added: “Of course, there isn’t one presenter who could replace Carol, so we’re going to have a selection of BBC weather’s finest over the two weeks, including today with Matt Taylor.
“Welcome along, Matt. How is it looking today, and for the rest of the fortnight?”
Matt Taylor stepped in to present the weather (Image: BBC)
Taylor, reporting from outside the training courts, continued: “Morning Isa. Absolute pleasure to be here, even if we are missing Carol. But I suspect eagle-eyed viewers may be able to spot her in the crowd somewhere today indulging in a love of tennis right here at Wimbledon itself.
“For her, for the crowds, also those warming up behind me, almost perfect conditions – certainly compared to the heat and humidity last week.”
While Kirkwood savours the tennis action, she will be substituted by a rotating roster of BBC weather presenters, expected to feature Sarah Keith-Lucas, Elizabeth Rizzini, Tomasz Schafernaker, and Helen Willetts.
There is plenty to anticipate at Wimbledon this year, with legend Serena Williams poised to make a sensational singles return after four years away from the sport. She will also revive her iconic doubles partnership alongside her sister, Venus.
Andy Murray is equally back at the scene of one of his most celebrated victories, this time as part of Jack Draper‘s coaching setup.
Novak Djokovic continues to chase his long-awaited record 25th Grand Slam title, where he will encounter fierce competition from reigning World Number One Jannik Sinner.
