ESPN is pressing the reset button on its Australian Open television coverage, unveiling a revised on-air lineup that blends familiar voices with newer faces while closing the chapter on two longtime contributors. According to a report by Front Office Sports, Malika Andrews will step into a host role during the second week of the tournament, including championship weekend.
In addition, Katie George will anchor coverage during the opening week. The changes apply only to ESPN’s Australian Open broadcasts this month, according to the report, with plans for Wimbledon and the U.S. Open still under review.
As part of the shuffle, ESPN has parted ways with veteran analysts Pam Shriver and Brad Gilbert. Shriver spent more than three decades as part of ESPN’s tennis coverage. She joined the network in 1990 while still competing professionally. Gilbert joined ESPN in 2004 and brought both his playing pedigree and coaching experience to the booth. He previously worked with stars including Andy Roddick, Andy Murray and Coco Gauff.
“We regularly evolve our on-air teams. Talent assignments vary by event and year, and not every contributor appears at every tournament,” an ESPN spokesperson said to FOS. “This year’s AO lineup reflects the specific coverage approach. We are still working on line-up plans for Wimbledon and US Open.”
According to the report, another name drawing attention is Darren Cahill. He has been a fixture of ESPN’s tennis coverage since 2007. However, his ongoing work as a high-level coach could influence his future availability. The adjustments are designed to give ESPN’s Australian Open presentation a refreshed feel. The tournament begins January 18, with the women’s singles final scheduled for January 31 and the men’s final on February. 1.
Beyond the hosting changes, ESPN is expanding its analyst bench. Former professional Chris Eubanks is slated to join a network that includes John McEnroe and Chris Evert. The lineup also features Caroline Wozniacki, Mary Joe Fernandez, James Blake, Sam Querrey and CoCo Vandeweghe. Chris McKendry is also taking on a new role. She is moving into play-by-play alongside Chris Fowler, Patrick McEnroe, Jason Goodall and Mike Monaco.
Sources said McKendry welcomed the opportunity, which opened following the retirement of Cliff Drysdale, ESPN’s longest-tenured broadcaster, after nearly 46 years with the network.
Shriver and Gilbert each acknowledged their departures publicly, thanking ESPN and fans for their time with the network.
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