Andrew Castle has confirmed his plans to return to Wimbledon less than 24 hours on from his final BBC commentary appearance21:18, 13 Jul 2026Updated 21:18, 13 Jul 2026Former BBC Wimbledon commentator Andrew Castle has announced he will be making an immediate return to Wimbledon this week. The 62-year-old was in the BBC gantry for the final time for Sunday's men's final between Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner, but has since revealed he will be back in SW19 as the venue reverts to a private members' club.‌Back in January, Castle confirmed that the BBC had informed of a change to their broadcasting plans for Wimbledon beyond 2026 with Andrew Cotter set to replace him. Despite his last appearance in an official capacity at the All England Club taking place over the weekend, Castle has now revealed he will be back there on Wednesday.‌He told GB News: "I'm back there on Wednesday playing anyway because it reverts to a private club, and it's just an awesome place to be. So not too sad, not too sad yet, just glad the last month's over in the build up to saying bye bye."‌During Sunday's programme, he and John Lloyd were interviewed by Rishi Persad, with the latter wishing him well as their segment drew to a close - and it appeared Castle could not resist taking a swipe at the BBC.He said: "Yes, I am a bit sad about it of course. I have fabulous memories, even working with John. And John is finishing as well, we're being put out to grass, I mean that's it. Booted."My kids were eight and 10 when I did my first Wimbledon final and they're now married. One has children and there's one expecting on the way so don't tell me there's nothing to do. (Turns to John) We'll play golf next week yes?".‌With his stint now formally concluded, Castle also reflected on why he thinks he was replaced. He said: "I've come to know the BBC audience as a general audience of our population, and I love them and I miss them and they write to me, and that's what I was trying to do over all these years."It's perhaps a new direction Now there comes a time for everything, and I accept that. I still feel like there's plenty to offer, and to be quite honest, that's exactly what they said as well.‌"It was all very nice and very kind and very decently delivered, but the bottom line is I'm still sad, and this week is always a little bit funny for me anyway as I come down from the great show. But this year a little bit different because I won't be back anyway."Castle was offered the chance to stay as part of their coverage but chose to move on. As he observed Sinner celebrate his second consecutive Wimbledon title, Tim Henman delivered a touching tribute to his colleague.He said: "Andrew, I've got to head up to the studio now, but I want to take the opportunity to thank you so much for sharing the commentary box with you for so many years. You've been an absolute star, you've taught me so much, and I'll miss you a lot, but what a great way to finish off."Article continues belowCastle responded by saying: "I knew you when you were an annoying 14-year-old, and I've known you that whole time. Thanks for your company, and you, Andre (Agassi)."JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! All the best sports news and much more on our dedicated Facebook page