Graduate claims top spot

09/07/03

Graduate claims top spot

A Kingston University sports science graduate has shot to the top of badminton’s world rankings. Gail Emms currently shares the number one spot with her mixed doubles partner, Nathan Robertson.

The duo, who won gold at the 2002 Commonwealth Games, have accumulated more points than any other mixed doubles pairing in the world during the past year. Their rise to international stardom has included wins in the Malaysian and BMW Opens. “To be officially recognised as the world’s best mixed doubles pair is an amazing feeling,” Gail said. “Nathan and I have had a fantastic year and it’s incredible how well we’ve gelled. We have beaten every single mixed doubles pairing in the world. Now our target is to stay firmly at the top.”

The 25 year old, who graduated from Kingston in 1998, picked up gold in last year’s Commonwealth Games’ mixed team badminton event, which consisted of one mixed doubles and two singles ties. She added a bronze to her medal haul for her performance in the women’s doubles, where she teamed up with Jo Goode.

Gail is now looking forward to next year’s Olympic Games in Athens and has her sights on another medal in the mixed doubles event. “Nathan and I think we’ve got a very good chance. If we keep performing as we have been and strive to improve further there’s no reason why we can’t do well. My dream is to win an Olympic gold,” she said.

University Director of Sport James Hayter said Gail was a shining example to Kingston’s other up-and-coming athletes. “It’s fantastic to see her go on to bigger and better things. She is a great professional and thoroughly deserves everything she has achieved,” he said.