BBC Sports presenter Natalie Pirks has announced she is leaving the broadcaster after 13 years, prompted by a drawing from her four-year-old daughter that made her rethink her priorities. Pirks, who covered four World Cups and four Olympic Games, shared the news on Instagram on Tuesday.
In her post, Pirks explained that her daughter drew a picture of her lying on the floor while working on her phone during pregnancy. She said the image was “burned in my memory” and made her realise she was “successful on paper” but missing key family moments.
Pirks wrote: “Your job is the most important of the least important things. I’m running towards balance and presence.” She added that she is leaving the job she “always dreamed of having” to devote more time to her family.
Fellow broadcasters Laura Woods, Kelly Somers, and Bianca Westwood expressed support, with many relating to her struggle for work-life balance. Pirks said she is “ambitious” but craves “more peace” in her work, calling her next chapter “the best is just beginning.”
