The All England Lawn Tennis Club decided not to renew its deal with Radio Wimbledon.
IMG have won the rights to broadcast the Wimbledon tennis Championships, it was announced on Tuesday.
The All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) decided not to renew its deal with Radio Wimbledon, despite them attracting 2.7million unique listeners last year.
The global media company will report the event as Live@Wimbledon after nearly two decades of Radio Wimbledon coverage.
An AELTC press release said that IMG’s was the winning bid of “a competitive and transparent tender process”.
Mick Desmond, AELTC Commercial Director, said: “We think this fresh approach will appeal to our existing fans, while helping us grow our global audience.”
IMG’s Live@Wimbledon will provide commentary from all matches on Centre and No. 1 Courts on FM frequency, www.wimbledon.com and mobile applications.
Matches from all 19 Championship courts will also be streamed live on video.
Mr Desmond added: “Live@Wimbledon is all about giving Wimbledon fans more coverage, better coverage and all of it live.
“Consolidation of our digital properties into one strong product under the Wimbledon brand allows us to provide a content-rich live experience.”
Radio Wimbledon contributor Nigel Bidmead said of the decision: “The team had a lot of fun over the years and so did the listeners.
“We were the eyes and ears for the millions who wanted to be a part of it but couldn’t be there. The new team have big tennis shoes to fill.”
Radio Wimbledon’s Twitter feed stated: “It is with a heavy heart that we have to tell you that Radio Wimbledon is no more.
“We have thoroughly enjoyed bringing the Championships to you and we hope that came across in our broadcasting.
“It was a unique sound formed over 19 years.”
Neil Harman, Tennis Correspondent for The Times, said to the South West Londoner: “Radio Wimbledon was a splendid concept, filled with good professional people and providing a wonderful service to its loyal listeners.
“Whatever happens, one has to hope that its spirit prevails. Making a change is only worthwhile if it is a change for the better.”
Fans of Radio Wimbledon have expressed their dismay at the decision.
One said on Twitter: “Sad to hear about Radio Wimbledon. Most entertaining radio coverage of all the Slams. Almost made me hope for rain delays.”
