Smith and Ellis announce international retirement

Lauren Smith and Marcus Ellis achieved a career-high ranking of seven in the mixed doubles

British mixed doubles pair Lauren Smith and Marcus Ellis have retired from international badminton after revealing they are expecting a baby.

The couple won European gold in 2019, competed at the Olympics in Tokyo in 2021 and claimed silver at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

"We're so happy to share the news that our family is growing," 33-year-old Smith said on Instagram.

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

Ellis, 35, won a bronze with Chris Langridge in the men's doubles at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, while Smith has won seven Commonwealth medals.

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

"I will continue to create content and develop my skills and experience in media."

Badminton England head of performance Mark Beecher said: "They have competed at the very highest level in our sport and we are proud of all they have achieved."