Balding replaces Inverdale as 5 live’s voice of Wimbledon

Clare-Balding-008_0

Clare Balding has been confirmed as the voice of Wimbledon 2014 on Radio 5 live, replacing John Inverdale.

Inverdale was caught up in a media storm last year after making misjudged comments about the appearance of Marion Bartoli, the eventual women’s champion.

Clare Balding returns to 5 live Clare Balding returns to 5 live

The 56-year-old has not been dropped from the BBC’s coverage altogether however, and will continue to present the evening highlights show, Today at Wimbledon.

Balding had been unable to front 5 live’s coverage last year due to other commitments and has led the station’s tournament coverage before.

Ironically, the BBC has also signed up Bartoli, who retired after her shock win last year, alongside British number one, Laura Robson.

Jimmy Connors also returns to the BBC team, 40 years after his first Wimbledon title, alongside regulars such as John McEnroe, Pat Cash, Lindsay Davenport and Tim Henman. Sue Barker will lead the TV coverage for the 21st consecutive year.

5 live’s commentary team, to be led by tennis correspondent Russell Fuller, will include Mary Pierce, Goran Ivanisevic, Richard Krajicek, Jana Novotna, Nick Bollettieri and Serena Williams’ current coach Patrick Mouratoglou.

BBC Sport’s digital coverage will be its biggest ever for Wimbledon, with up to 12 live streams available across any device.

Subscribe to the Prolific North Daily Newsletter Today!

Want all the latest content from Prolific North delivered direct to your inbox daily? Of course you do!

Related News