Badminton England’s tribute to Cumbrian star Lauren Smith

Badminton England’s tribute to Cumbrian star Lauren Smith

The 33-year-old this week announced she was pregnant and would no longer compete at the top level.

It brings an end to a medal-laden career from the Longtown player, including seven Commonwealth Games medals and European and domestic titles.

Both Smith and her on and off-court partner Marcus Ellis are stepping back from international competition as they prepare for parenthood.

Head of Performance at Badminton England, Mark Beecher, said: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank both Lauren and Marcus for all their incredible commitment to the programme, their unending dedication to developing their game and the bar they have set for others who have watched them play, trained alongside them or competed against them during more than a decade with Badminton England.

“They have competed at the very highest level in our sport and we are proud of all they have achieved.”

Carlisle-born Smith competed at two Olympic Games for Team GB as well as several Commonwealth Games for England.

She had represented her country with “commitment, pride and positivity,” Badminton England added.

Marcus Ellis and Lauren Smith, on and off court partners, are starting a familyMarcus Ellis and Lauren Smith, on and off court partners, are starting a family (Image: PA)

Her mixed doubles partnership with Ellis reached a career high world ranking of seven.

“The pair have left a lasting legacy which we have no doubt will serve to inspire those at the start of their journey with Badminton England,” the statement added.

Smith, announcing her pregnancy on Instagram last Sunday, said: “We’re so happy to share the news that our family is growing 🥰

“This means we won’t be returning to international competition, and are starting a new chapter in our lives.

“We feel incredibly lucky to have had such long careers traveling the world together playing the sport we love. We are going to miss it a lot.

“A huge thank you to @yonex_badminton for the unwavering support, @uk_sport and everyone who has played a role in our careers over the years.

“To all the amazing fans, we will miss you the most, but we won’t be disappearing from the Badminton world!

“Marcus will continue to play and coach, in his clubs and at training centres around Europe.

“And I will continue to create content and develop my skills and experience in media, as I grow bigger and bigger and eventually have my own orbit!”

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