Scottish star Kirsty Gilmour is set to make her 11th appearance at the BWF World Championships, marking over a decade of competing at badminton’s highest level.
Now 32, the world No. 34 continues to prove her longevity after capturing her first European Championships title earlier this year. Looking back, Gilmour admitted she sometimes forgets how special it is to still be competing on the biggest stage.
“I try not to take it for granted that I’m still here and able to play at the World Championships. It’s something really special,” she said.
Among her favourite memories is the 2017 World Championships in Glasgow, where she reached the quarter-finals in front of her home crowd. Gilmour recalled her surprise at seeing a giant banner of herself displayed outside the Emirates Arena alongside Olympic champion Chen Long.
“It was quite scary, but also incredibly special,” she said.
After more than a decade on tour, Gilmour admitted the demanding lifestyle has taken its toll at times, but adopting a new mindset after turning 30 has helped her enjoy the latter stages of her career.
“I see this as bonus time now. I still want to perform at a high level, but I don’t want to feel like I’m racing against the clock. I just want to enjoy the time I have left.”
Rather than relying solely on physical intensity, Gilmour is now placing greater emphasis on tactical awareness and decision-making.
“I’m focusing on tactics, linking my shots together and playing smarter, not just harder. As long as I leave training physically exhausted and mentally challenged, I know I’ve had a good day.”
