Olympic gold medallist Eve Muirhead has reversed her decision to retire, crediting her experience as Team GB’s chef de mission at the recent Games for reigniting her desire to compete. After a four-year hiatus, the 36-year-old will partner with two-time Olympic silver medallist Bobby Lammie in mixed doubles, with the long-term goal of qualifying for the 2030 Games in the Alps.
Muirhead initially stepped away from the sport following her gold medal win in Beijing, citing the toll of a long career. However, her recent role at the Milan-Cortina Games brought back a competitive drive she had not felt in years. She noted that her time away allowed her to pursue other physical challenges and enjoy life without the intense pressure of professional curling, yet she ultimately felt she still had more to offer on the ice.
She is not the only former teammate returning to the rink. Vicky Drummond, 32, is also making a comeback to join the GB Curling mixed doubles programme, partnering with Euan Kyle. Drummond, who works as an intensive care nurse, stated her motivation is partly to serve as a role model for her young daughter, Sophie. She hopes to demonstrate that motherhood does not signal the end of personal ambition.
The return of these two athletes sets the stage for a compelling rivalry as they compete against one another and Jen Dodds for a spot in the elite GB pairing. While Muirhead returns with a refreshed perspective and a history of success, Drummond brings a renewed sense of purpose, ensuring that the road to the next Winter Olympics will be highly competitive.
