Olympic sensation Sam Quek is no stranger to the spotlight, and as she prepares to co-host Channel 5's coverage of Super Bowl LX, her star continues to rise. The 37-year-old former hockey star, who clinched gold with Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympics, has seamlessly transitioned from the field to the broadcasting booth. Teaming up with Dermot O'Leary for the high-stakes clash between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots in San Francisco, Quek's versatility shines through. But beyond the glamour of live TV, Quek's life is a tapestry of triumphs, challenges, and heartfelt moments. This article delves into her net worth, a poignant health scare, and the lighthearted 'jealousy' from her husband over her Strictly Come Dancing stint.
From Hockey Pitch to Broadcasting Powerhouse
Sam Quek's athletic career peaked with that unforgettable gold medal in women's field hockey at Rio 2016, a moment that cemented her as a national hero in the UK. Post-retirement, she didn't fade into obscurity. Instead, Quek pivoted to media with effortless grace, covering everything from horse racing's Grand National to rugby union's Six Nations. Her recent Olympic broadcasting gigs have further solidified her expertise.
Television stardom beckoned soon after. Quek traded her stick for sequins on Strictly Come Dancing in 2024, where she dazzled audiences with partner Nikita Kuzmin. She also braved the Australian jungle on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! and showcased her culinary chops on Celebrity MasterChef. Now, with Super Bowl LX on the horizon—featuring the Vince Lombardi Trophy showdown—Quek is poised to bring her infectious energy to American football fans across Britain.
Super Bowl LX: What to Expect from Quek's Coverage
Channel 5's broadcast promises insider insights, half-time show breakdowns, and real-time analysis. For UK viewers, the game kicks off early morning on February 9, 2026, with free streaming options available. Quek's unique perspective, blending her Olympic pedigree with entertainment flair, will make it unmissable. As she told reporters, 'I'm thrilled to dive into this American spectacle—it's a whole new ball game!'
Family Life: Love, Laughter, and a Touch of Jealousy
Away from the cameras, Quek's world revolves around her family. She's married to Tom Mairs, a successful property developer and fellow sports enthusiast. The couple, who share two children—Molly and Isaac—met through mutual friends and tied the knot in 2018. Mairs, known for his entrepreneurial spirit, once featured on Channel 4's Secret Millionaire and received a £1 million boost from his father to launch Antona Student Properties.
Quek often credits Mairs for being her rock, especially during her TV adventures. Before her Strictly debut, she shared a cheeky insight into their dynamic: 'Tom's genuinely excited for me, but I know he'll be a bit jealous. He's always dreamed of gliding across that dance floor himself.' The pair are the ultimate wedding dancers, staying out until the lights come up. During rehearsals, Quek struggled with the sultry routines, admitting, 'I'm not sexy—I can't do the eyes or the sway without giggling.' Mairs teased her via text after a BBC Breakfast demo: 'Almost!' Their banter highlights a solid partnership built on mutual support and shared passions.
A Heartbreaking Health Scare and Path to Parenthood
Quek's journey to motherhood hasn't been without heartache. Before welcoming Molly, the couple endured a miscarriage that 'took its toll emotionally and physically,' Quek revealed in a candid interview with OK! Magazine. The loss led her to keep her next pregnancy under wraps until six months, shielding herself from potential pain.
The arrival of son Isaac in 2022 brought another scare. Just a week before her due date, Quek experienced intensifying contractions and spotting, prompting an emergency hospital dash. Plagued by nightmares of complications, she feared a repeat of past anxieties. 'Seeing blood when pregnant is never good,' she recounted. Doctors opted for an immediate C-section to ensure safety.
Emotional Reunion and New Beginnings
The procedure was tense, but relief flooded in when Isaac's face appeared over the curtain. 'It was pure joy—he was safe, and our family was complete,' Quek said, tears in her eyes. Today, with Molly and Isaac thriving, Quek balances her high-profile career with family time, often sharing glimpses of their adventures on social media. Her resilience in the face of adversity inspires fans, proving that even Olympians face personal battles.
Net Worth: Building a £4 Million Empire
Quek's multifaceted career has paid off handsomely. Her estimated net worth stands at £4 million, amassed through hockey endorsements, broadcasting contracts, and celebrity appearances. Deals with brands leveraging her Olympic status have been lucrative, while stints on BBC and ITV shows add to her earnings. Mairs' property ventures contribute to their combined wealth, making them a power couple in both sports and business circles.
Looking ahead, Super Bowl coverage could boost her profile further, opening doors to more international gigs. Quek's story is one of reinvention—from athlete to media maven—while navigating life's ups and downs with grace and humor.
As Super Bowl LX approaches, Sam Quek remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes and broadcasters alike. Her blend of athletic prowess, on-screen charisma, and personal authenticity ensures she'll continue captivating audiences worldwide.
