The likes of Andy Murray, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Billie Jean King paid tribute to the 66-year-old, while elsewhere in the sporting world, Michael Johnson and Robin Cousins thanked her for her decades of outstanding service to television. Barker is hanging up after 30 years at the tournament. Commentator and former Wimbledon champion John McEnroe captured her live on air and presented a package of her best moments as a player and presenter. Recording a short video, Federer said: “Thank you for everything you have done for the game of tennis. Interviews, on the field… you made me cry. I wish you all the best for the future and, again, thank you for these incredible 30 years.” Sue Barker waved goodbye to Wimbledon after her final presentation day of the tournament Barker is hanging up after 30 years at the tournament Barker was accompanied by Tim Henman as she made her final BBC broadcast Sue Barker broke down in tears after watching a touching tribute unfold live on camera Murray, meanwhile, said: “I grew up watching you on TV and I’ve obviously interviewed you here many times. You will be sadly missed by all who love and watch tennis.’ There was also a glowing moment from Nadal, who added: “Thank you for all the great things you’ve done over the years. “We will miss you and wish you all the best for the future.” Former world No.1 Billie Jean King also chimed in, saying: “She lived it. He understands it. She understands the highs and lows of Wimbledon as a player.’ The legendary presenter is hanging up her microphone after 30 years covering Wimbledon Andy Murray appeared in the video dedicated to her career as both a player and broadcaster There were other tributes from Tim Henman, Pete Sampras, Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, among others, who wished Barker well in her retirement. An emotional Barker, reacting to the video, said: “It was an absolute privilege. I loved it, 30 great years. “I will miss my job and especially the people I work with. I am so proud to have been part of the program, so thank you.’ A crowd had gathered to watch the video, with Barker in tears. As the BBC panel waxed lyrical about her, viewers chanted: “We love you, Sue, we love you.” Roger Federer also spoke glowingly of Barker, thanking her for an “incredible” three decades Rafael Nadal also made an appearance, with the veteran wishing her well in her retirement “All I’ll say is I’m going to miss the job, I wish I had the next 30 years to do it. I like it,” Barker added. “But most of all I will miss the people I work with. “In front of the camera, behind the camera, you were unbelievably amazing. I’m so proud to be at the front of the program, so thank you.” Earlier today, McEnroe went off script to thank Barker for her efforts shortly before the men’s final between Novak Djokovic and Nick Kyrgios on Center Court. McEnroe, a three-time SW19 champion, hugged her before walking off camera. Former world No. 1 Billie Jean King was one of the first to praise Barker. After watching the clips, Barker described her feelings and admitted to a bittersweet feeling “Before I go, I want to give you one last hug, Sue,” McEnroe said, before the two embraced. ‘Thank you for everything. You were amazing, incredible… we will miss you. ‘If you want [an] absolutely great time [comparison]you’re the Roger Federer of the broadcast world.” Leaving the set earlier Sunday, John McEnroe (R) hugged Barker and paid tribute to her Barker blushed, before replying, “Thank you very much!” Sportsmail exclusively revealed in June that Barker had been offered a three-year contract extension by the BBC. But he has promised to bow out and won’t appear on screens after today’s final.
