Wimbledon finals to be first 3D broadcasts on BBC

The BBC will broadcast the men’s and women’s singles finals at this year’s Wimbledon Championships live in 3D.The matches, scheduled to be played on Saturday 2 July and Sunday 3 July, will be the first programmes to be shown in 3D by the BBC.The free-to-air broadcast will be available to anyone who has access to a 3D TV set and HD Channels.Danielle Nagler, head of BBC HD and 3D, said: “We’re bringing audiences a new way of getting close to the action.”She added: “I’m sure that 3D will only add to the drama as the world’s greatest players compete for the championship.”Rafael Nadal’s victory over Tomas Berdych in the 2010 final was watched by an average of 5.6m viewers, while 2.3m watched Serena Williams win her fourth singles title.BBC executive sport producer Paul Davies said: “This unique 3D transmission is the latest innovation to bring to life all the tension, drama and excitement on one of the most iconic sporting arenas in the world.”As well as coverage on BBC One, BBC HD and BBC Two, viewers will also be able to follow the tournament via the BBC Sport website and the BBC Red Button. – BBC