Kate Scott is a name synonymous with excellence in sports broadcasting. A British journalist and presenter, she has carved out a remarkable career that spans continents, languages, and sports, earning her a reputation as one of the most versatile and respected figures in the industry. Best known for her work anchoring CBS Sports’ coverage of the UEFA Champions League since August 2020, Kate’s journey from a language enthusiast to a global media personality is a testament to her talent, determination, and passion for sports.
Early life and education
Born Kate Giles on September 8, 1981, in Manchester, England, Kate grew up in a household steeped in sports culture. Her father, Tom Giles, was a devoted Manchester United fan who held a season ticket at Old Trafford, while her mother, a Liverpool supporter, brought a playful rivalry into the family dynamic. Raised alongside an older brother, Kate’s childhood was filled with football discussions, often centered around the iconic British program Match of the Day. This environment fostered her lifelong love for the sport, particularly her allegiance to Manchester United, a loyalty she proudly maintains to this day. Of Guyanese descent through her maternal grandmother, Kate’s heritage adds a layer of diversity to her identity.
Her academic journey reflects her curiosity and ambition. She attended Christ the King School and the prestigious Withington Girls’ School in Manchester before making a bold move at age 17: relocating to Spain to immerse herself in the language and culture. There, she completed her high school diploma and began honing her linguistic skills. Kate later returned to the UK to study at the University of Salford, where she earned a first-class Bachelor’s degree in European Languages. She also pursued translation and interpreting studies at the University of Málaga, spending additional time in France and Germany to master French and German. Fluent in English, Spanish, French, and German, her multilingualism would later become a cornerstone of her broadcasting career.
Career beginnings
Kate’s entry into sports journalism was not a straight path but rather a serendipitous blend of her linguistic talents and her passion for sports. After graduating, she landed an internship at Deutsche Welle, a German international news network, working in the Foreign Languages Editorial Department. Initially focused on translating business stories, she requested a transfer to the sports desk, where she began covering the Bundesliga. When a presenter unexpectedly left the network, Kate was thrust into an on-air role at just 20 years old. Though hesitant at first, she seized the opportunity, marking the start of her television career.
Her time at Deutsche Welle laid the groundwork for a rapid ascent. In 2009, she joined CNN, anchoring the daily program World Sports from London. Her ability to deliver insightful commentary in multiple languages caught the attention of global audiences and industry leaders alike. By 2011, she returned to Germany as the lead anchor for Sky Sports News HD, becoming the face of the network. Despite feeling “underqualified” among more experienced colleagues and grappling with imposter syndrome, Kate thrived, hosting in German and solidifying her reputation as a skilled broadcaster.
Sky Sports, Fox Sports, and beyond
Kate’s career gained further momentum when she moved to the UK in 2014 to join Sky Sports. There, she hosted a variety of programs, including pay-per-view boxing events, European football coverage, and Sky Sports News. Her versatility shone through as she interviewed sports icons like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Pep Guardiola, often in their native languages. She also hosted the FIFA Ballon d’Or ceremonies in 2014, 2015, and 2016, presenting awards to Messi and Ronaldo and showcasing her ability to navigate high-profile events with poise and professionalism.
In 2015, Sky Sports loaned Kate to Fox Sports in the United States to cover the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Her performance led to a permanent role, prompting her relocation to the U.S. At Fox, she hosted coverage of the Champions League, Europa League, and Premier Boxing Champions series, further expanding her portfolio. When Fox lost the Champions League rights to TNT in 2018, Kate transitioned to Turner Broadcasting, continuing her football coverage. However, it was her move to CBS Sports in 2020 that would elevate her to new heights.
The CBS Sports era
Since joining CBS Sports, Kate has become the linchpin of the network’s UEFA Champions League coverage. Hosting alongside former football stars Thierry Henry, Jamie Carragher, and Micah Richards, she brings structure and wit to a panel known for its lively banter and infectious chemistry. Often compared to Ernie Johnson of Inside the NBA, Kate is the “glue” that holds the show together, seamlessly blending analysis with humor. Her ability to dish out and take playful jabs—whether reminding Richards he never won the Champions League or sparring with Carragher—has endeared her to fans worldwide.
The CBS Champions League broadcast has defied expectations, becoming a hit not just in the U.S. but across Europe, where fans appreciate the authenticity and entertainment value of the panel. Kate’s linguistic skills remain a standout feature, as she translates interviews on the fly and engages with players and coaches in their native tongues. Beyond football, she has hosted Kickin’ It, a long-form interview series on Paramount+, further showcasing her versatility.
Personal life
Kate’s personal life has garnered attention alongside her professional achievements. From 2010 to 2016, she was married to Ramtin Abdo (full name Ramtin Abdolmajid), a German-Iranian businessman and real estate mogul. The couple kept their relationship private, and little is known about their time together or the reasons for their divorce.
In December 2023, Kate’s relationship with Malik Scott, an American former professional boxer and trainer, came into the spotlight. The pair had been spotted training together earlier that year, and by March 2024, they confirmed their romance on Instagram. They married in September 2024 in a stunning ceremony in Malibu Hills, California, where Kate paid tribute to Scott’s boxing roots with a wedding cake modeled after his first gym in Philadelphia. Scott, who coached Deontay Wilder and boasts a 70-3 amateur record, has praised Kate’s intellect and compassion, highlighting their strong bond.