Andy Roddick Will Join FOX Sports 1 as FOX Sports Live Co-Host
By Josh Sanchez
FOX Sports is trying to put together an impressive staff to fill up the shows on their 24/7 sports network FOX Sports 1 that is hoping to compete with ESPN and on Wednesday we learned a big name that will be joining the network. According to a SportsIllustrated.com report, FOX Sports has agreed to hire former tennis star Andy Roddick as a co-host for the three-hour show FOX Sports Live.
The show feature Roddick and Charissa Thompson, who will be leaving ESPN, as the co-hosts.
Also in the studio will be Jay Onrait and Dan O’Toole of TSN’s SportsCentre show to present highlights, along with a featured panel of former athletes.
Roddick originally began interviewing for the gig a couple of months ago with FOX Sports executives in Los Angeles.
“Throughout the interview process I was very honest,” Roddick said, via Sports Illustrated. “I was the way I have always been: Pretty direct and pretty opinionated. I think that’s what they were looking for. I don’t know if they were looking for a typical, run-of-the-mill type of show or someone with fabricated opinions.
“The last thing I am going to try to do is try to think I know more than someone who makes decisions as a head coach in the NFL. I don’t think I will be the guy questioning Bill Belichick’s coaching decisions in the fourth quarter. I think that’s stupidity. But I think I can give a decent look on the preparation side of athletes, the business side and maybe what they are thinking going into a big situation or moment.”
Roddick’s big personality could do well in the co-hosting gig, but it will be interesting to see if he has a wide grasp of sports.
One thing is for sure: FOX Sports is dedicated to bringing in some top-notch talent in an effort to compete with ESPN. The network will launch in the middle of August with a live UFC event from Boston.