The BBC has said goodbye to one of its most popular stars, and viewers are not happy16:51, 13 Jul 2026Popular BBC commentator Andrew Castle has stepped down from his role.‌The 62-year-old former tennis player quickly became a fan-favourite star, who has been the lead Wimbledon commentator for 23 years. But sadly, Andrew has left his role, after the BBC confirmed a "change of direction" with its coverage of the tournament.‌The men's final, which took place on Sunday (July 12), marked Andrew's final appearance behind the microphone for the BBC. Andrew was joined in the commentary box by Tim Henman and Andre Agassi, as Italian Jannik Sinner defended his singles title at SW19.‌This weekend also saw 21-year-old Linda Nosková lift the Venus Rosewater Dish, after defeating her fellow Czech player Karolína Muchová in the women's singles final.Despite enjoying the tennis, many BBC viewers were left issuing the same complaint at the end of the 2026 tournament, reports the Express.‌Shortly after the men's final ended, Tim Henman paid tribute his co-star Andrew as he prepared to say goodbye to BBC viewers for the final time.Tim thanked Andrew for sharing the commentary box with him for so many years, calling him an "absolute star". He added: "You've taught me so much, and I'll miss you a lot. But what a great way to finish off."As he wrapped up for the final time, Andrew said to viewers: "That's it from me. Thank you very, very much for your company. What a pleasure and a privilege it has been to watch [Jannik Sinner] and Alcaraz and Federer and Djokovic and Nadal and Andy Murray, perhaps in particular, over the years. Take care, and thank you."‌Clare Balding, who was stationed outside Centre Court, then shared: "A huge thank you to Andrew Castle. What a final to have as your finale."BBC viewers swiftly found themselves feeling emotional after Andrew's farewell, with numerous people slamming the broadcaster's decision to drop the commentator."That @bbctennis has ended its contract with #AndrewCastle at @Wimbledon is an absolute travesty. Big booo BBC," one viewer posted on X (formerly Twitter).‌Another added: "Sad to see Andrew Castle go! Great commentator with real skill and insight!" while a third said: "Andrew Castle is a lovely fella and a very good commentator. He'll be missed at Wimbledon and beyond."A fourth viewer mirrored the sentiment, saying: "Really sad and emotional that Andrew Castle has commentated his last @Wimbledon for the @BBC. He will be missed."‌Someone else commented: "I was in tears after Tim's tribute."Other viewers said it was a "shame" that Andrew was leaving, while others felt that Wimbledon wouldn't ever be the same after his departure. The outpouring of emotion continued, as a number of fans expressed their "shock" after Andrew's final match.Andrew is not the only familiar face to have left the BBC following this year's Championships, as much-loved commentators John Lloyd and Jo Durie have also said their farewells.Article continues belowWimbledon 2026 highlights are available to stream on BBC iPlayer