- Fans criticize the BBC for not airing Andy Murray’s match on BBC One initially
- The BBC opted to feature the women’s rugby sevens on the primary channel
Fans have expressed their outrage at the ‘shameful’ decision to not air what could be Andy Murray’s final match on BBC One.
Murray, who is set to retire following the Paris Olympics, is competing in men’s doubles with Dan Evans, facing Kei Nishikori and Taro Daniel from Japan in the opening round.
However, to the disappointment of many fans, it was decided that Murray’s match would only be broadcast live on BBC iPlayer, while the women’s rugby sevens match between Great Britain and Australia aired on BBC One instead.
One fan lamented the choice, stating: ‘This may be Sir Andy Murray’s last EVER tennis match, and BBC One is showcasing rugby sevens group stage instead. Completely bizarre. And frankly shameful.’
Another shared their frustration, expressing: ‘Why on earth isn’t Murray’s (potentially) last match on BBC One? Why is it relegated to the Red Button? Truly angry about this. More people should have easy access.’
Fans criticized the BBC for not initially showing Andy Murray’s match on BBC One
Murray and Dan Evans took on Kei Nishikori and Taro Daniel of Japan in the men’s doubles
Moreover, another fan remarked: ‘What a joke that the BBC is airing women’s rugby on BBC1 instead of Andy Murray’s doubles match.’
Some fans suggested this decision reinforced calls for the BBC’s funding to be reevaluated.
One fan wrote: ‘The BBC genuinely showing rugby sevens over Andy Murray’s likely last match? I’m closer than ever to supporting the ‘defund them’ movement.’
Another added: ‘It looks like Andy Murray’s final game, yet it’s stuck on iPlayer while a rugby sevens pool game gets the main coverage.’
Eventually, it was determined that Murray’s match would be aired on BBC One after Great Britain’s women lost 36-5 to Australia in the rugby sevens.
It was announced that the doubles would mark Murray’s final tournament after his withdrawal from singles competition.
At 37, Murray is still recovering from back surgery he underwent last month.
Fans criticised the decision to show the women’s rugby sevens match between Great Britain and Australia instead
“I’ve made the decision to withdraw from singles to focus on the doubles with Dan. Our practice has been great, and we’re playing well together. Excited to get started and represent GB one last time,” Murray stated.
“Dan and I have committed to prioritizing this together.”
“I believe Dan will continue to play singles. Last week he focused on doubles practice.”
“That’s what I have primarily been practicing and training for during my time in Greece. It gives us and the team a realistic chance for a medal.”
“My back isn’t quite perfect. Playing two matches in a day might not be the best option.”
Murray also missed out on the singles tournament at Wimbledon, with a previous plan to compete in mixed doubles thwarted by Emma Raducanu’s withdrawal.
