Golden girl Sophie Taylor pulls out of World Swimming Championships

Swimmer Sophie Taylor, pictured at the John Charles Aquatic Centre

Taylor broke the British record on her way to winning the gold medal in the 100m at last year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

However, she has struggled to recapture the scintillating form in the 2015 season and it has now been revealed that she has lost her love for the sport.

The 19-year-old was expected to be Britain’s best hope for a medal in the sprint breaststroke events in Kazan, Russia.

However head coach of British Swimming, Bill Furniss, confirmed she wanted time away from the sport.

Taylor switched her training base to Bath from London earlier this year after a disappointing performance at the national championships.

Furniss said: “I have spoken at length with Sophie and this is not a decision she has taken lightly.

“At this point Sophie is not enjoying her swimming and feels she needs time away from the sport.

“I have told Sophie the door remains open once she has had a break and is ready to reconsider her future.

“I would like to thank Sophie for her contribution so far to British Swimming.”