Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell introduce A Question of Sport teams
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After 24 years on A Question of Sport Sue Barker has stepped down from her presenting duties. The show first aired in 1970 with Sue being the longest reigning host in the show’s history after she joined back in 1997. Sue is leaving the show alongside her fellow presenters Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell.
Why is Sue Barker leaving A Question of Sport?
It is understood the BBC wants to take the sporting quiz show in a new direction.
A BBC spokesperson confirmed Sue’s departure from the show which first aired in 1970.
They said: “We would like to thank Sue for her enormous contribution as the show’s longest-reigning host over the last 24 years, and Matt and Phil for their excellent team captaincy.”
She took part in her last show on May 28, saying: “I just want to say it’s been a privilege… it’s been my dream job and I have loved every minute of it.”
She also thanked her co-stars for being “wonderful mates”.
The BBC added: “Together they have ensured A Question of Sport remains a firm favourite with the BBC One audience.”
A Question of Sport celebrated its 50th-anniversary last month with a documentary-style version of the show which looked back over the previous five decades.
Upon her departure, the former professional tennis player admitted it was her “dream job”.
She said: “I’ve absolutely loved my 24 years fronting A Question of Sport, it’s been my dream job.
“But I understand the BBC want to take the show in a new direction and I’m sad to say goodbye.”
Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell who presented alongside Sue on the show have also stepped down from the show.
Matt has since spoken his love for the show on Twitter, writing: “Thanks for all the lovely messages.
“I’m not sure how to respond so I’ll have a think. Needless to say I will miss @QuestionofSport immensely….”
Sue previously revealed the circumstances which lead her to pursue a career in broadcasting.
In a 2007 interview with Surrey Life, she said: “I never really decided to go into broadcasting.
“At the time, Bob Wilson was the only other sportsperson who had gone on to become a presenter, but I was approached to have a go, and the rest is history. I’ve been at the BBC since 1993.
“Even when I retired from tennis, it didn’t seem right if I wasn’t playing or training and that has very much stayed with me.
“It’s vitally important to me that even later in life, I stay fit and focused.”
Sue went on to talk of how she feels lucky to have had two successful careers.
The presenter added: “I feel very lucky that I was able to move on to a job that I enjoy as much as my tennis career.
“Very few people have one career they love, let alone two.
“I’ve also been able to witness many fantastic sporting moments over the years with my favourite probably the 2001 Wimbledon final between Pat Rafter and Goran Ivanisevic. It had a thrilling fifth set and was very exciting to watch.”
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