Two-Time Badminton Olympian Lauren Smith’s Father Andrew Dies At 61 After 21-Month Fight With Brain Cancer

British badminton star Lauren Smith has announced the heartbreaking loss of her father, Andrew Smith, who passed away at the age of 61 after a courageous 21-month battle with brain cancer.

In a deeply emotional tribute shared on social media, Lauren reflected on the depth of her loss and the special bond she shared with her father.

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She said,

She continued,

Andrew’s support for his daughter never wavered.

Whether proudly watching her dominate on the world stage or simply enjoying a walk with the family dog, he was a constant source of strength, love, and pride.

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He lived to see Lauren become a mother herself, a memory she now treasures deeply.

As Lauren continues her journey both in sport and in life, she carries the legacy of a father who believed in her endlessly and a love that will never fade.

Lauren Smith’s Parents Were Involved In Sports

Lauren Smith’s love for badminton was rooted in her family.

Her mother, Nicola Highmore, was a top local player, and both her father, Andrew, and stepfather were involved in the sport.

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From a young age, Lauren was surrounded by rackets, shuttlecocks, and a deep passion for competition.

She once described being passed around in a carry cot while her mom played, stating,

“It was kind of inevitable, I think.”

That early exposure translated into greatness.

Raised in Cumbria, Lauren attended William Howard School in Carlisle, balancing multiple sports including netball and running.

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Yet, badminton always came first. She represented England at the age of 14, launching what would become a remarkable international career.

Despite her global success, Lauren has always credited her parents as her greatest inspiration.

On Mother’s Day, she once said:

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Lauren Smith, born on September 26, 1991, stands as one of Britain’s most accomplished badminton athletes with an impressive medal collection spanning multiple international competitions.
• Her Commonwealth Games success includes seven medals across three tournaments: bronze and silver at Glasgow 2014, silver and bronze at Gold Coast 2018, and two silvers at Birmingham 2022.
• Partnering with Marcus Ellis, who is both her mixed doubles partner and real-life partner, she reached the quarterfinals at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, solidifying her place among international badminton’s elite.