Chris McKendry is a prominent journalist for ESPN, having joined the network in 1996. She initially made her mark as a long-time anchor on SportsCenter, where she co-hosted various editions, including the weekend morning and weekday 6 p.m. shows. Her expertise in sports journalism was further showcased when she transitioned to ESPNEWS for its launch, demonstrating her adaptability and commitment to sports broadcasting. McKendry’s role at ESPN has evolved over the years, and she now serves as the full-time on-site host for tennis coverage, including prestigious events like the Australian Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open.

Before her tenure at ESPN, McKendry was a sports reporter at WJLA-TV, the ABC affiliate in Washington D.C., where she made history as the first woman to work as a television sports news anchor in the market. Her impactful reporting earned her a regional Sports Emmy in 1996 for the segment “NFL 101,” which educated novice fans on football. Additionally, she co-hosted Redskin Magazine, a live pregame show, and served as a sideline reporter during the NBA Playoffs for TNT and TBS.

McKendry’s versatility is evident in her diverse assignments at ESPN, which include hosting the National Spelling Bee and covering the FIFA Women’s World Cup. She has also contributed to College Football Live and served as a columnist for ESPN.com. Her extensive experience in sports journalism has made her a respected figure in the industry.

In 2016, McKendry transitioned to focus exclusively on tennis, a sport she has loved since childhood. Her dedication to the sport is reflected in her comprehensive coverage of major tennis tournaments. A graduate of Drexel University, where she was a Division I scholarship tennis player, McKendry continues to inspire aspiring journalists and athletes alike with her remarkable career and contributions to sports media.