The Eastbourne International, also known as the Rothesay International Eastbourne, is a prestigious grass-court tennis tournament held annually at Devonshire Park, Eastbourne. It serves as a key warm-up event for Wimbledon, attracting top players from both the ATP and WTA tours. For tennis fans wanting to catch every serve, volley, and match point, knowing where and how to watch Eastbourne tennis on TV and online is essential. This guide provides a detailed introduction and step-by-step instructions on how to watch the tournament live, with simple clauses to make it easy to follow.
What Is The Eastbourne Tennis Tournament?
Eastbourne tennis is a historic event, dating back to 1894, making it one of the oldest grass-court tournaments in the world.
It features both men’s and women’s competitions, with players using it to prepare for Wimbledon, the third Grand Slam of the year. The tournament typically runs in late June, just before Wimbledon starts, and is held at Devonshire Park, which boasts 12 world-class grass courts.
When Does the Eastbourne Tournament Take Place?
The 2025 Eastbourne International is scheduled from June 23 to June 28, 2025. Qualifying rounds usually happen just before the main draw, which lasts about a week. Matches start around 11 am UK time each day, with the final often played on a Saturday.
Where Can You Watch Eastbourne Tennis on TV?
In the United Kingdom
BBC Television and BBC iPlayer
The BBC offers extensive live coverage of the Eastbourne International. Matches are broadcast on BBC Two and BBC One, depending on the day and stage of the tournament. For example, in 2024, coverage started at 1 pm on BBC Two on most days, with the final shown live on BBC One starting around 12:15 pm. The BBC also streams matches live on its iPlayer service, allowing viewers to watch on-demand or live online for free.
Tennis Channel
The Tennis Channel has secured a major four-year partnership with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to broadcast all grass-court events in the UK, including Eastbourne, until 2027. This channel provides comprehensive coverage of every court, showing both singles and doubles matches live. Tennis Channel offers a subscription service that can be accessed online or via pay-TV providers. UK viewers can subscribe for around £2.49 per month or £24.99 annually, with occasional discounts available.
Outside the UK
Tennis TV (Official ATP Streaming Service)
Tennis TV streams all ATP matches from Eastbourne live. This service is available worldwide, except where local broadcasters have exclusive rights. It allows fans to watch on multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. The subscription provides access to all ATP matches during the tournament.
WTA Broadcast Partners
For women’s matches, the WTA website lists international broadcast partners by country. Many countries have dedicated sports channels or streaming platforms that carry the Eastbourne women’s matches live or on delay.
How to Watch Eastbourne Tennis: Step-by-Step
For UK Viewers
Using BBC TV or iPlayer
Tune into BBC Two or BBC One during the tournament days.
Alternatively, go to the BBC iPlayer website or app.
Search for “Eastbourne International” or “Rothesay International Eastbourne.”
Select live coverage or catch up on matches you missed.
No subscription fee is required for BBC iPlayer, but you must have a UK TV license.
Using Tennis Channel
Subscribe to Tennis Channel via their website or through your pay-TV provider.
Use the code “GRASS24” for a 30% discount on an annual subscription when available.
Access live streams of all matches, including those not shown on BBC.
Watch on your preferred device: smart TV, computer, tablet, or smartphone.
For International Viewers
Using Tennis TV
Visit the official Tennis TV website or download the app.
Purchase a subscription to access ATP matches live.
Stream matches on multiple devices with high-quality video.
Check local blackout restrictions before subscribing.
Using Local WTA Broadcasters
Visit the WTA official website to find your country’s broadcast partner.
Access matches through local TV channels or online streaming services.
Some broadcasters may require a subscription or pay-per-view fee.
Why Choose These Viewing Options?
BBC offers free, high-quality coverage with expert commentary and highlights, making it accessible to all UK tennis fans.
Tennis Channel provides the most comprehensive coverage, including all courts and matches, ideal for hardcore fans who want every detail.
Tennis TV is perfect for ATP fans outside the UK, offering flexibility and convenience on multiple devices.
Local WTA broadcasters ensure fans worldwide can watch women’s matches without missing out.
Additional Tips for Watching Eastbourne Tennis
Check the schedule daily as match times can vary due to weather or tournament progress.
Use official apps or websites to avoid unauthorized streams and ensure the best quality.
Consider time zones if watching from outside the UK; matches usually start late morning UK time.
Look out for player line-ups and wildcards announced before the tournament to follow your favorite players closely.
Summary Table: Where to Watch Eastbourne Tennis
| Region | Broadcaster / Platform | Coverage Details | Access Method | Cost |
| UK | BBC TV & iPlayer | Live free-to-air, highlights | TV channels, online app | Free (UK TV license) |
| UK | Tennis Channel | Full coverage, all courts & matches | Subscription online/TV | £2.49/month or £24.99/year (with discounts) |
| Worldwide | Tennis TV | ATP matches live | Online streaming app | Subscription fee |
| Worldwide | Local WTA broadcasters | Women’s matches live or delayed | Local TV/streaming | Varies by country |
Conclusion
By following this guide, tennis fans can enjoy the excitement of the Eastbourne International with ease and confidence.
Whether you prefer free-to-air broadcasts on the BBC or comprehensive coverage on Tennis Channel or Tennis TV, there are plenty of options to suit your viewing preferences. Stay tuned and enjoy the thrilling grass-court action as players gear up for Wimbledon.
