Sam Smith - Speaker

Sam Smith is a former professional tennis player and British number one who achieved international acclaim for her talent, discipline, and grit. Her career highlights include reaching the last 16 at Wimbledon in 1998, notably defeating former champion Conchita Martinez, and representing Great Britain at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Sam held a world ranking of 55 at her peak, establishing her as one of Britain’s foremost players of the 1990s.

Sam’s commitment to excellence began early; as a junior, she was a multiple national champion and medalled at the European Championships. Even during a brief hiatus from professional tennis, she excelled, completing a BA in History at the University of Exeter while capturing titles at the British University National Championships and medalling at two World Student Games.

After retiring from the WTA tour in 2000, Sam transitioned to media, where she has since become a respected tennis commentator. Her insight, depth of experience, and clarity have made her a mainstay of both radio and television sports coverage. Her historic role in 2019 as the first woman to lead commentary for the Wimbledon Ladies Singles Final on the BBC marked a pinnacle in her broadcasting career.

Beyond sports, Sam’s journey has taken a new direction following a late-life diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in 2019. Embracing her neurodivergence, she now actively promotes awareness and understanding of autism, especially within corporate and organisational contexts. By openly discussing her experiences with what was previously termed Asperger’s Syndrome, Sam aims to shift perceptions and highlight the strengths that come with neurodiversity while acknowledging the challenges she manages daily.

A Full Member of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and The International Club of Great Britain, Sam continues to inspire through her contributions to tennis and her advocacy for neurodivergence, resilience, and authenticity in all spheres of life.