BBC has extended its long-standing broadcast partnership with the All England Lawn Tennis Club, securing UK domestic rights to the Wimbledon Championships through 2033.
Wimbledon stays free-to-air in the uk
Under the new agreement, Wimbledon will remain free-to-air across the UK, continuing its distribution across BBC television, radio, digital platforms, and streaming services such as BBC iPlayer.
The renewal ensures that one of sport’s most historic broadcast partnerships will continue beyond its centenary milestone, with BBC first airing Wimbledon in 1927.
Record digital audiences underline growth
BBC reported that last year’s tournament generated 69.3 million online requests across its digital platforms, surpassing the previous record of 54.3 million set in 2023.
BBC Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski said the deal reflects a commitment to evolving coverage through new technology, storytelling formats, and expanded digital engagement.
AELTC Chair Deborah Jevans emphasized that the agreement reinforces Wimbledon’s commitment to maintaining free access for UK audiences while leveraging BBC’s multi-platform reach.
Next year’s tournament will mark 100 years since Wimbledon was first broadcast by the BBC, making this renewal one of the longest-running media partnerships in global sport.
While the UK deal secures domestic coverage, Wimbledon continues to expand its international broadcasting footprint. The tournament has recently renewed agreements with beIN Sports across the Middle East and North Africa, and with Australia’s Nine Network through 2029.
In the United States, ESPN retains rights under a long-term deal running through 2035.
Player protest adds tension
The announcement comes amid growing tension between players and tournament organizers over prize money distribution.
Professional players are increasing pressure on the Grand Slams, arguing that prize money allocations remain disproportionate to overall tournament revenues. Some players have begun limiting media commitments and reducing engagement during tournament weeks as part of coordinated protest actions.
Despite a 20% increase in this year’s prize fund to £64.2 million, the dispute highlights a wider structural debate over how tennis revenue is shared across the sport’s ecosystem.
The BBC’s renewal of Wimbledon rights through 2033 reinforces the stability of one of sport’s most historic broadcasting partnerships. However, it comes at a time when tennis is facing increasing pressure from players over financial distribution, adding a layer of tension beneath the sport’s strong commercial growth trajectory.