Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.Read more

Tim Henman paid tribute to Andrew Castle after the veteran commentator’s final match as part of the BBC team at Wimbledon.

It was confirmed ahead of the Championships that the 2026 edition would be Castle’s last on commentary, with the former British No 1 electing to step away entirely after being told he would not be commentating on next year’s final.

Castle has spent 23 years working for the BBC at SW19 having forged a successful career in television and radio since concluding his playing career.

His final match at Wimbledon was the men’s final between Jannik Sinner and Alexander Zverev, won in four sets by the Italian, with Henman and Andre Agassi alongside Castle in the commentary box.

And Henman felt it was a fitting match to farewell his departing, long-time colleague.

“I want to take this opportunity of thanking you so much for sharing the commentary box for so many years,” Henman said. “You’ve been an absolute star, you’ve taught me so much and I’ll miss you a lot. What a great way to finish off.”

Castle and Henman were on commentary together when Andy Murray ended a 73-year wait for a British winner of the men’s grass court grand slam – and the former revealed that the pair had had a mishap as the Scot sealed victory over Novak Djokovic.

“I knew you when you were an annoying 14-year-old and I’ve known you that whole time,” Castle said to Henman. “Thanks for your company, Tim, all the best and take care.

Andy Murray triumped at Wimbledon in 2013Andy Murray triumped at Wimbledon in 2013 (AFP/Getty)

“I shall never forget Tim Henman standing up, shooting up when Andy Murray won in 2013 and elbowing me right in the head on match point because he was so excited.”

Andrew Cotter is expected to take on lead commentary duties for the men’s final at Wimbledon next year. John Lloyd will also leave the BBC team.

“That’s that from me, thank you very much for your company.” Castle signed off. “What a pleasure and privilege it has been to watch [Sinner] and [Carlos] Alcaraz and [Roger] Federer and Djokovic and [Rafael] Nadal and Andy Murray – perhaps in particular – over the years. Take care and thank you.”