BBC Sports presenter Natalie Pirks has revealed that she has quit broadcasting after a message ‘burned’ in her memory from her four-year-old daughter. Pirks has been one of the figureheads of the national broadcaster’s sports coverage for 13 years but has taken the decision to walk away to spend more time with her loved ones.
Pirks has covered four World Cups and as many Olympic Games in her role with the corporation. The presenter’s social media profiles are littered with interviews with star athletes and piece to cameras with idyllic backgrounds, either at a sports stadium or a nearby major landmark. However, a picture that her four-year-old daughter drew stopped her in her tracks and sparked a realisation surrounding her demanding role.
The picture depicts Pirks pregnant, lying down on her back, and working on her phone. In an accompanying post to Instagram, she said: “In two weeks I’m leaving the job I always dreamed of having. “Here’s why: Twenty-plus years in broadcasting, four World Cups, four Olympic Games, countless major finals.
“By every measure, I made it. But my daughter once drew a picture of me that is burned in my memory.
“I was laying down (pregnant) and working on my phone. She was just four years old. And she was right. Successful on paper.
“Spinning plates in real life. Good at your job but your own harshest critic, missing key moments with your family, wondering if this is really it? I SEE YOU.
“Here’s what these decades have actually taught me: Your job is the most important of the least important things. I’m running towards balance and presence, using all the skills I’ve learned in 25 years in the media.
“Have you ever felt like there is a whole other life out there for you? That you are still ambitious and have plenty to give but crave more peace in your work? Let me know in the comments if I’m not alone and follow if you can relate. The best is just beginning…”
A host of industry professionals and recognisable faces across sports broadcasting rushed to support Pirks. While being in front of the BBC cameras, Pirks has presented coverage of England men’s campaigns at major tournaments as well as the Lionesses’ Euro 2022 triumph.