Sue Barker's unexpected appearance at Wimbledon during Cameron Norrie's Centre Court clash with Carlos Alcaraz left BBC commentator Andrew Castle surprised on Tuesday.
The former tennis presenter, who has rarely been seen at SW19 since ending her 22-year tenure fronting the broadcaster's coverage, was captured on camera watching the match.
Barker, 69, appeared briefly on screen following a replay of an elegant shot from the Spanish player.
The sighting was sufficient to prompt a startled Castle to ask co-commentator John McEnroe: "Is that Sue Barker up there? Where's Sue? What is she doing up there? I didn't see her on the list."
Sue Barker's unexpected appearance at Wimbledon during Cameron Norrie's Centre Court clash with Carlos Alcaraz left BBC commentator Andrew Castle surprised on Tuesday
BBC
When cameras returned to Barker after a brief pause in play, Castle discovered she was seated in the Members' enclosure rather than the more prestigious Royal Box.
His commentary revealed his astonishment at the seating arrangement.
"Ah, [she's in a] box. Nearly in the Royal Box," Castle observed. "That's the Royal Box over there. Maybe next time. Member's enclosure. Not bad."
The veteran broadcaster's tone suggested he felt the 1976 French Open champion deserved more prominent positioning for the high-profile encounter between Britain's Norrie and defending champion Alcaraz.
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Andrew Castle suggested he felt Sue Barker should have been sitting in the Royal Box at Wimbledon
BBC
Tennis enthusiasts responded with indignation on social media, rallying to Barker's defence following Castle's commentary.
One fan wrote on X: "If anybody should be in the Royal box, it's Sue Barker!"
Another supporter questioned Castle directly, posting: "Surely @AndrewCastle63 can get Sue Barker into the royal box with his contacts? She's a Wimbledon legend."
The sentiment was echoed by a third viewer who declared: "Disgraceful that Sue Barker isn't in the Royal Box."
The passionate responses highlighted the affection tennis fans retain for Barker and their belief that her contributions to Wimbledon coverage warrant the tournament's most exclusive seating arrangements.
Barker concluded her distinguished 30-year career with the BBC following the 2022 Wimbledon championships, marking the end of an era for tennis broadcasting.
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Her departure came after three decades covering major sporting events worldwide for the corporation.
Reflecting on her tenure ahead of stepping down, Barker said: "What a wonderful time I've had working on some of the biggest sporting events around the world.
"I will miss it terribly, but after 30 years I feel the time is right for me."
Sue Barker returned to Wimbledon last year to pay tribute to Andy Murray
PA
She added: "I've worked with the best of the best."
Barker also made a return to Wimbledon in 2024, where she paid tribute to Andy Murray.
Murray made his last appearance at the tournament before retiring at the Paris Olympics.
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