Gail Emms

Gail Elizabeth Emms (born July 23, 1977 in Hitchin, Hertfordshire)

Is a retired English badminton player who has achieved international success in doubles tournaments.

Career

Her best results were winning gold at the 2006 World Championships in Madrid, 2004 European Championships in Geneva, and a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games, partnering Nathan Robertson in the mixed doubles. At the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester she won a bronze medal with Joanne Goode in the women's doubles and won gold as part of the England team in the mixed team event. In the English National Badminton Championships she won the mixed doubles three times and the women's doubles twice.

Attributes

Gail is known for her commanding approach to doubles, as well as her attacking play at the net. Her anticipation of net shots and her ability to maintain an offensive position throughout the rally can be overwhelming for her opponents. She is considered by many reviewers as one of the most formidable front-court players in the game.

Early life

A badminton player since the age of four, Emms was first chosen to represent England in 1995, and regularly played for her country until her retirement. From a sporting family, her mother represented England at football in the 1971 Women's World Cup. She also attended the Dame Alice Harpur School in Bedford, an exclusive private girls' school. She is sponsored by badminton equipment company Carlton.