An emotional farewell to Sue the GOAT

SUE BARKER was hailed as the “Roger Federer of the broadcasting world” and “the GOAT” as the BBC legend yesterday fought back tears at the end of her 30th Wimbledon.

The former French Open champion, now 66, announced her intention to hang up her microphone before The Championships.

And on Middle Sunday, her applause rivalled any for the all-time greats during the Parade of Champions to mark the 100th anniversary of Centre Court.

At the start of her last day, fellow presenter John Mcenroe gave the national treasure a hug live on air and told her: “You’re like the Roger Federer of the broadcasting world.”

And, after the final, the BBC showed a video montage, beginning with her playing career, with tributes from Federer, Virginia Wade, Chris Evert, Martina Navratilova, Pete Sampras, Rafa Nadal, Andy Murray and Des Lynam.

Billie Jean King, who then appeared live on air said: “She is the best presenter they have ever had. She is the GOAT.”

Barker was a fine player who won Paris in 1976 aged only 20 and reached the 1977 Wimbledon semifinals. Her successful second career – for which she is now better known – has seen her present coverage of the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, World Athletics Championships, the London Marathon, the Grand National, Royal Ascot, Sports Personality of the Year and Question of Sport.

She has been around so long she has gone from having a crush on David Ginola to being charmed by Matteo Berrettini after the Queen’s Club final last month.

Barker said: “It has been an absolute privilege. I have loved it. I wish I had the next 30 years. Most of all, I will miss the people.”

She will always be closely associated with Andy Murray’s Wimbledon finals, with his tears after his 2012 defeat and his historic win 12 months later.

The Scot said: “You are going to be sorely missed by everyone who watches and loves tennis.”