Availability dot

Available to book

Neurodiversity speaker & tennis champion

Sam Smith

Transform workplace neurodiversity with Sam Smith, speaker and former British tennis champion. Sam works with organisations to enhance autism awareness, promote inclusive leadership, and leverage neurodivergent strengths, delivering expert insights backed by her BBC broadcasting career and Olympic experience.

Trusted by BBC

Sam Smith, Speaker | Former Tennis Pro and Broadcaster
Sam Smith

Sam Smith

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£2k–5k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

Get Sam's availability

Availability dot
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Book Sam

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire Sam Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Sam Smith's biography

At a glance

  • Former Professional Tennis Player
  • First Female Broadcaster for Wimbledon Final
  • Advocate for Neurodivergence Awareness
Sam Smith is a former professional tennis player and British number one who achieved international acclaim for her talent, discipline, and grit. Her career highlights include reaching the last 16 at Wimbledon in 1998, notably defeating former champion Conchita Martinez, and representing Great Britain at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Sam held a world ranking of 55 at her peak, establishing her as one of Britain’s foremost players of the 1990s. Sam’s commitment to excellence began early; as a junior, she was a multiple national champion and medalled at the European Championships. Even during a brief hiatus from professional tennis, she excelled, completing a BA in History at the University of Exeter while capturing titles at the British University National Championships and medalling at two World Student Games. After retiring from the WTA tour in 2000, Sam transitioned to media, where she has since become a respected tennis commentator. Her insight, depth of experience, and clarity have made her a mainstay of both radio and television sports coverage. Her historic role in 2019 as the first woman to lead commentary for the Wimbledon Ladies Singles Final on the BBC marked a pinnacle in her broadcasting career. Beyond sports, Sam’s journey has taken a new direction following a late-life diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in 2019. Embracing her neurodivergence, she now actively promotes awareness and understanding of autism, especially within corporate and organisational contexts. By openly discussing her experiences with what was previously termed Asperger’s Syndrome, Sam aims to shift perceptions and highlight the strengths that come with neurodiversity while acknowledging the challenges she manages daily. A Full Member of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and The International Club of Great Britain, Sam continues to inspire through her contributions to tennis and her advocacy for neurodivergence, resilience, and authenticity in all spheres of life.

Sam's showreel and videos

Why we recommend booking Sam

Book Sam Smith to inspire your team with her unique journey from elite athlete to pioneering broadcaster. Her insights on neurodivergence and resilience will foster understanding and inclusivity, empowering your organisation to embrace diverse perspectives. Sam’s compelling story and positive outlook will motivate and engage your audience.

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Sam Smith for my next event?
Email sam.smith@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Sam's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Sam Smith's speaking style like?
Sam Smith draws on her personal experience of receiving a late-life ASD diagnosis to frame talks on neurodivergence, using her own professional and post-career journey as a case study to contextualise the strengths and challenges of autism within corporate and organisational settings.
What topics does Sam Smith specialise in?
Sam Smith speaks on neurodiversity and autism in the workplace, diversity and inclusion, and resilience drawn from professional sport. She is best known in broadcasting for becoming the first woman to lead commentary on the Wimbledon Ladies Singles Final for the BBC in 2019, having previously reached the last 16 at Wimbledon in 1998 and represented Great Britain at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics during her career as British number one.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.