Wimbledon post heartfelt 885-word statement in tribute to Sue Barker – 'End of an era'

The likes of colleagues Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova sang her praises with Billie Jean calling her the ‘GOAT’ while John McEnroe dubbed her the ‘Roger Federer of broadcasting.’ The 66-year-old was left in tears as the tournament came to a close and she will likely be left sobbing once again after reading the lengthy statement from Wimbledon regarding her retirement and years of service to the event.

Titled ‘Farewell Auntie Sue’, excerpts from the beautiful message read: “As she walks out on to Centre Court to conduct the post-final interviews with the new men’s singles champion and runner-up today, it is almost inconceivable to think that this will be the last time she performs the role that’s taken so many players to the hearts of fans. A broadcaster with an insider’s empathy, she is the consummate pro in encouraging others to share their feelings.

“What a career she’s had as one of very few former athletes who have gone on to present multi-sports programmes on a high-profile channel such as the BBC. But after 30 years as the presenter of the Beeb’s Wimbledon coverage, she will hang up her microphone, take her telegenic jacket off the hook marked HRWH (Her Royal Wimbledon Highness) in the studio and look forward to coming back to The Championships simply to sit back and enjoy the tennis. 

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source: express.co.uk