Wimbledon has opened its doors once again, but one familiar face won’t be returning
Isa Guha kicked off the BBC’s Wimbledon coverage(Image: BBC)
A familiar face won’t be returning to Wimbledon this year.
Thousands of tennis fans will flock to SW19 over the next two weeks as the Wimbledon Championships begin for another year.
Isa Guha returned to host the early morning BBC coverage on Monday (June 29), where she was joined by Tim Henman and Anne Keothavong. Sadly, one BBC legend won’t be joining them as part of the broadcaster’s coverage this year.
Carol Kirkwood, who usually covers the weather throughout the Championships, will not be on screen this year, after she stepped down from her role at BBC Breakfast back in April.
After an impressive 28-year career, Carol announced her retirement to focus on her marriage and travelling the world.
Isa paid tribute to Carol just minutes into Wimbledon’s coverage on Monday, saying: “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.”
Confirming Carol’s replacements, Isa continued: “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, who was stationed outside the training courts, then said: “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.”
As Carol enjoys the tennis, she will be replaced by a rotating roster of BBC weather stars, which is likely to include Sarah Keith-Lucas, Elizabeth Rizzini, Tomasz Schafernaker, and Helen Willetts.
There’s lots to look forward to at Wimbledon this year, as US icon Serena Williams is set to make a blockbuster singles comeback after four years away from the sport. She will also resume her iconic doubles pairing with her older sister, Venus.
British legend Andy Murray is also back at the scene of one of his greatest triumphs as part of Jack Draper’s coaching team.
Novak Djokovic is still chasing his elusive record 25th Grand Slam title, where he will face stiff competition from current World Number One Jannik Sinner.
Coverage of Wimbledon will air on BBC One and BBC Two, as well as being available to stream on BBC iPlayer