The ABTO Podcast, from the Association of British Tennis Officials, explores the world of tennis officiating through the voices of those who have shaped it.

In this episode, host Malgorzata Grzyb speaks with Brazilian chair umpire Carlos Bernardes as he reflects on nearly four decades at the heart of professional tennis. Carlos has presided over some of tennis’s most memorable matches - including the 2006 and 2008 US Open men’s singles finals, the 2011 Wimbledon men’s singles final, the 2016 and 2024 ATP year-end final, and no fewer than five Olympic Games. Having officiated over 8,000 matches and umpired 24 of the 29 players who have held the ATP World No. 1 ranking, Carlos shares stories from an impressive career that made him one of the sport’s most respected voices on court.

In this podcast, Carlos offers a first-hand look at how the role of an umpire has evolved, the challenges and changes that he has witnessed, and his advice for aspiring officials hoping to follow in his footsteps.

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With thanks to editor Adam Woodward and the Wolfe Power Club Podcast of Studio 55 for their technical support.