Retired gymnast turned media personality, Louis Smith is widely regarded as one of the best recent UK athletes in the sport. From making history at the Olympic Games to being honoured with an MBE, the artistic gymnast gained international popularity following his incredible career in the spotlight. Now a recognisable star, Louis has utilised his platform to discuss such prominent issues as mental health problems, of which he has suffered from himself. As a speaker, Louis is known to explore his captivating career, motivating audiences to achieve their ambitions with anecdotes from his time as a professional sportsman, and educate on the importance of supporting both a healthy mind and body.
Best known for his high-profile Olympic debut, in 2008 Louis won a bronze in the men’s pommelled horse at the Beijing Olympic Games. Not only was Louis an underdog for the medal but he was the first Brit to win a medal in gymnastics either as a team or individually since 1928, marking it as a highlight of the Games for the country. Going from strength to strength, Louis has since competed at the London 2012 Games winning silver in the same event and bronze in the team all-round, and most recently won silver at the Rio Olympic in 2016 on the men’s pommelled horse again, a testament to his talent on the equipment. Retiring in 2018, Louis had become the 2015 European Champion, 2006 Commonwealth Champion and the only British gymnast to win medals at three games.
Despite his international recognition and evident success, Louis suffered from mental health issues following his win in 2008. Having gone from a relatively unknown athlete to making history for his country overnight, the vast difference to his life led to Louis feeling depressed and struggling to cope. He took a brief break from the sport to focus on himself, a time he elaborates on as a speaker. Having further supported such campaigns as LadBible’s U OK M8? appeal for men’s mental health, Louis is a prominent speaker on the issues affecting particularly men and how to encourage open discussions.
Since retiring from professional sports, Louis has become a regular feature of the media and has strengthened his career in the spotlight following his win on Strictly Come Dancing in 2012. He has transitioned into performing, a natural showman, he had headlined the UK and West End tour of Rip It Up The 60s in which he both danced and sang. Equally prominent on the speakers' circuit, Louis is booked to motivated audiences backed by his extensive career experience and down to earth personality.
