Paris Olympics 24: Todd Woodbridge defends Mark Taylor commentating diving

Tennis legend Todd Woodbridge has leapt to the defence of cricket great Mark Taylor calling the diving, saying they both relish new challenges.

Todd Woodbridge says it was unfair to criticise cricket great Mark Taylor’s diving commentating debut.

The tennis legend turned host and commentator is himself calling a foreign sport in beach volleyball and says no one should be pigeon holed.

“I felt sorry for Tubby because one of the key things people forget is when you’re in the host’s chair your job is to pass on to others,’’ Woodbridge said.

“When you’re an athlete and you’re in these spaces all your instincts kick in, the research and the work that’s required, that makes it the most fun because you’re challenging yourself in those spaces.

“I don’t take things on if I don’t think I can do them. My experience in hosting, leading the broadcast, I felt confident. Working with Kerri (Pottharst) I felt I was under the microscope and before we started she gave me a run through of beach volleyball for dummies and now she’s looking at me going ‘look at you go’.

Todd Woodbridge and Kerri Pottharst at the beach volleyball

Mark Taylor is commentating on the diving. Picture: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

“I hope people realise my career has expanded which has helped me take on new things.

“Don’t let yourself get pigeon holed, don’t do something you’re not comfortable with, be prepared to have a go.”

Taylor was disappointed with the flak he copped, particularly with some suggesting it was disrespectful to the athletes.

Woodbridge, who hosts popular game show Tipping Point, was also part of Nine’s team hosting the Olympics opening ceremony alongside Karl Stefanovic and Allison Langdon.

“The memories that come back playing Olympics, I had all sorts of feelings from disappointment to elation,’’ Woodbridge said.

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“For me it has been one of the best Games I’ve ever been to. Talking to generically just having been at them. It’s running so well, the venues are magnificent and while the streets are quiet everyone is in a positive mood. It’ll be a highlight of my career.”

Woodbridge, who played in four Olympic Games, said he preferred a traditional stadium opening ceremony experience.

“Logistically trying to pull that off was incredible, but if I was an athlete my experience would tell me it’s far better to walk behind the flag bearer and get your moment,’’ he said.

Originally published as Paris Olympics 24: Todd Woodbridge defends Mark Taylor commentating diving