**Sam Quek Recalls Frightening Medical Emergency Ahead of Soccer Aid Appearance**
Olympic gold medalist and television presenter Sam Quek is set to return to the nation’s screens as she takes part in this year’s Soccer Aid charity match at Old Trafford. The 36-year-old, best known for her remarkable achievements with Great Britain’s women’s hockey team at Rio 2016, has since carved out a successful career as a sports broadcaster. Yet behind her poised public persona, Quek has candidly shared details of a terrifying medical experience that unfolded as she prepared to grow her family.
Even as Quek transitions into a high-profile broadcasting role—fronting coverage across the Olympic Games, football, NFL, and rugby—she has not been far from the spotlight, nor from criticism. After her debut presenting the Grand National for ITV earlier this year, some racing enthusiasts voiced strong reservations, questioning her credentials despite Quek’s own experience as a keen racing fan and racehorse owner. “I was quite shocked and disappointed by the reaction,” Quek admitted, pointing out that her previous encounters within the sport had always felt welcoming and inclusive.
On social media, sceptics doubted her expertise, with many questioning why a former hockey star was fronting horse racing coverage. Quek, however, remained unfazed: “I’m not pretending to replace top racing pundits, but I want to bring new viewers into the sport—sharing my genuine passion.” Her response to the backlash highlighted a resilience often seen in high-level athletes, as she brushed off the naysayers and focused on her role as a crossover presenter, hoping to make racing accessible to wider audiences.
Away from the glare of television cameras, Quek and her husband Tom, a successful property entrepreneur and former Secret Millionaire participant, have faced more personal challenges. The couple, who now share two young children—Molly and Isaac—spoke openly about the pain of miscarriage, which profoundly affected them prior to Molly’s birth. Cho choosing to wait until six months into her following pregnancy before sharing any news, Quek explained that the earlier heartbreak led her to temper her excitement with caution and hope.
Tragically, Quek’s journey through pregnancy did not become any easier. While expecting their second child, Isaac, she endured a particularly distressing episode. She awoke one morning feeling increasing pain before noticing she was bleeding—a terrifying situation for any expectant mother. “When you’re pregnant and see blood, it is never a good sign,” she said. Medical staff quickly moved to take no risks, recommending an emergency caesarean section just days before her due date. Quek had previously endured nightmares about possible complications, which heightened her anxiety as events unfolded.
In a heartfelt interview, she described the emotional moment following the caesarean: “When his little face appeared after so much worry, I was just overwhelmed that he was finally here and healthy.” Tom, a constant supporter, was by her side throughout. Their experiences of loss and the complexity of bringing new life into the world have added to Quek’s reputation for openness and relatability.
Quek’s time in the public eye also includes a stint on Strictly Come Dancing, an announcement which brought a light-hearted response regarding her husband’s good-natured jealousy. She has joked about the infamous “Strictly curse,” insisting their solid relationship is built on shared experiences and mutual support. “Tom knows how much I’ll enjoy it—he might even be a bit jealous. We’re always the last ones off the wedding dance floor!” Quek laughed.
However, Quek admits she faces her own challenges on the dance floor, describing herself as less than comfortable with the sensual routines required by some dances. Her sense of humour has been a source of strength, with Quek acknowledging, “If I have to do sexy, I’ll probably just end up laughing—or at least trying not to!”
As Quek steps onto the pitch once again for Soccer Aid, she brings with her not only an impressive track record in sport but the resilience and honesty that has become her trademark. Her story offers a window into the pressures of both public expectation and private hardship, and is a testament to confronting adversity with candour and determination. For viewers tuning in, Quek’s journey from the Olympic podium to the television studio—and her family life beyond—will undoubtedly continue to resonate.