Latest news with #WorldSeniorsChampionship
The Sun
11-05-2025
- Sport
- The Sun
World Seniors Snooker Championship 2025 LIVE RESULTS: Aaron Canavan faces Alfie Burden in huge final RIGHT NOW
THE World Seniors Championship reaches its crescendo as Aaron Canavan and Alfie Burden facing off in a huge Crucible final NOW! A new champion will be crowned after 2024 winner, Igor Figueiredo, went crashing out in the first round. Much-loved snooker heroes Jimmy White and Ken Doherty were also eliminated in their respective openers. The big final will be contested between 2018 winner Canavan and 2023 finalist Burden after both came through thrilling semi-finals in Sheffield. 10th May 2025, 15:21 By Craig Mahood Dominic Dale 0-0 Aaron Canavan Terrific reception for both men - isn't that nicer than the low crowds when starting matches at 9.45pm!?? Canavan to break in the opening frame - game on! 10th May 2025, 15:19 By Craig Mahood Here they come... It's Dominic Dale vs Aaron Canavan in the second semi, with both looking to book their place against Alfie Burden in tomorrow's final. Canavan is the only previous winner of this competition - how might that play into his hands? 10th May 2025, 15:16 By Craig Mahood Winning black The final shot of this semi final with Alfie Burden sticking the crucial black ball away. The two men share a hug after it and plenty of mutual respect between them. By Craig Mahood More from Alfie He finished by revealing his plans for the evening, saying: 'I'm over the moon and delighted to have another crack to win this tournament. 'I played well, he was a tricky opponent. He didn't settle early but showed he can play and put me under pressure. 'I'm behaving tonight, I'm here to win this tournament. I might go for an Italian or something!' 10th May 2025, 15:08 By Craig Mahood 'Massive' Burden added: 'It'd be massive for me to win this, I'll be ready for tomorrow and hopefully I can win it. 'I don't know if it'd be the biggest achievement of my career, but probably! 'I'm just focusing on trying to win tomorrow.' 10th May 2025, 15:04 By Craig Mahood Alfie reacts A touch of class from Alfie Burden who opens his interview saying: 'I just want to say how well he did in this tournament coming from Australia. 'He played fantastic and what a great tournament, well done to him.'
Wales Online
08-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Jimmy White's huge net worth now, young TV presenter girlfriend and 'life-changing' health diagnosis
Jimmy White's huge net worth now, young TV presenter girlfriend and 'life-changing' health diagnosis The snooker legend is in action at the World Seniors Championship this week White has credited his partner with helping to keep him on the straight and narrow (Image: Twitter: @jimmywhite147 ) Snooker legend Jimmy White is back in action on Thursday afternoon as he kicks off his World Seniors Championship campaign at the Crucible Theatre. With the World Snooker Championship wrapped up with Zhao Xintong's first ever world title, it's time for the sport's more senior figures to battle it out for glory in Sheffield. Few are more experienced than 63-year-old White, who is a record four-time winner of the senior tournament, triumphing in three of the last six years of competition. His success at senior level comes after he suffered repeated heartbreak in his earlier career, reaching six World Snooker Championship finals but finishing runner-up on every occasion. Nevertheless, with ten ranking event titles - including the 1984 Masters and the 1992 UK Championship - to his name, 'The Whirlwind' is known as a legend of the game. However, it is not just his flamboyant playing style and big personality that has ensured he will be remembered by snooker fans for years to come, but his eventful personal life. From his battles with gambling and drug addiction to his "life-changing" health diagnosis, huge net worth and glamorous younger partner, here's what you might not know about White's life away from the snooker table. Article continues below Huge net worth Over the course of his 45-year professional career, White has unsurprisingly cashed in a large amount of prize money, with CueTracker putting the total figure at £5.1 million. Having moved into media work in recent years, he has added to his total net worth which is now estimated to be in the region of £6.7 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Having struggled with addictions to drugs and gambling, White has previously admitted to gambling away millions of pounds over the course of his career, leading him to the point of bankruptcy, "I gambled at least three million quid, so if I gambled three million quid I probably had to earn six or seven million to get that,' he told the Anything Goes podcast in 2021. "That's a lump, that's retirement money, so I should be more sick with that. "But because at the time it was going so f***ing quick you don't think do you? I went bankrupt through gambling." On his addiction to cocaine, he told Louis Theroux's documentary Gods of Snooker: "Cocaine was absolutely everywhere. It was like the devil's dandruff, but crack – it's evil. "I tried smoking it and got completely addicted. I remember I had £35,000 in an account and I drained that on crack." Much younger TV presenter girlfriend Following his struggles, White - who is now sober - has credited his partner Jade Slusarczyk with helping to keep him on the straight and narrow. A TV presenter, model and walk-on girl, Slusarczyk is a former Miss Blackpool winner and is 23 years younger than White. They met in 2018 during a snooker tournament in her hometown and started dating, with neither bothered by their considerable age difference. On how his relationship with the 39-year-old had helped him, White told The Sun: "It's impossible to say how much I used to drink in my wild days. It was drink after drink and line after line and I'd go missing for days. It took 15 years to get sober and I don't miss that life at all. "Jade's helped me because she doesn't drink. I've never been so happy and I'm pleased to say my life is in a good place. I haven't got a zillion in the bank but I have my family and Jade. "I didn't think for a minute she'd go out with me, because of the age difference. It's a miracle she fancies me. But she doesn't care about the age difference, so why should I? "She's my girlfriend and she's fit so I'm happy. She's a beautiful girl, inside and out." 'Life changing' health diagnosis Earlier this year, White opened up about being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), something which he says has "completely changed" his life. Appearing on Stephen Hendry's Cue Tips podcast, the snooker legend said: "I'm gonna give you an exclusive. I got diagnosed with ADHD about two years ago. "I've had to work. With ADHD you think about 15 things at once. So I'm now down to sort of like normal. I have to be medicated and all that and it's completely changed my life." On how the disorder - which is characterised by symptoms of inattentiveness hyperactivity and impulsiveness - had affected him throughout his career, White added: "When you're under pressure, looking back all these things were going through my mind and all of a sudden I'm starting to miss everything. "The pockets are closing up as I'm hitting them and the balls are getting like footballs. That for me now, looking back, if I'd known what I had I'd have been able to refocus better. That was a big thing." The diagnosis came nearly 30 years after White was told he had testicular cancer, an ordeal which he admits left him "terrified of dying". However, he was able to beat the disease having "caught it early enough", and he was even able to have a fifth child following successful surgery to remove one of his testicles. Article continues below He told the Guardian: 'I discovered I had testicular cancer after finding a lump. It turned out to be two malignant growths and the doctor told me I would have to have the testicle removed. "I was so terrified of dying that I didn't even want to tell my wife, Maureen. Luckily I caught it early enough. I even managed to produce a son - my fifth child - which is a miracle, really.'
Wales Online
08-05-2025
- Sport
- Wales Online
Mark Williams teases surprise career move after World Championship final defeat
Mark Williams teases surprise career move after World Championship final defeat The Welshman was beaten by Zhao Xintong in the final at the Crucible but has now turned his attention elsewhere Williams has set his sights elsewhere following his World Snooker Championship heartbreak (Image: Tai Chengzhe/VCG via Getty Images ) Welsh snooker star Mark Williams has teased a surprising new career move following his defeat to Zhao Xintong in the final of the World Championship. The 50-year-old was aiming for his fourth world title at the Crucible but was beaten by Zhao, who became world champion for the first time with an 18-12 win having raced into a commanding lead. The Chinese star is a former world number six but was playing as an amateur having returned from a 20-month ban from the sport. Following the defeat, a disappointed Williams - who beat the likes of Judd Trump and John Higgins to make it to the final - said he had "nothing but admiration" for the new world champion, hailing him as a "new superstar of the game". But the Welshman has promptly turned his attention elsewhere and has raised a few eyebrows by teasing plans to compete at the World Seniors Championship next year. The tournament, which follows the World Snooker Championship, is currently taking place at the Crucible, with the likes of Jimmy White and Ken Doherty amongst those in action. Williams actually won the tournament in 2015 and played in it again the following year. However, he has been largely ineligible since, with the event closed to players who still had a professional tour card and were inside the top 64. Article continues below However, the partnership between World Seniors Snooker (WSS) and the World Snooker Tour is set to come to an end following this year's World Seniors Championship. That is set to lead to some major rule changes, with the WSS keen to allow all players over the age of 40 to play in seniors' competitions, regardless of their ranking. As a result, the door is set to be opened again for world number three Williams to take part in the competition if he wishes to do so, with the likes of Higgins and Ronnie O'Sullivan also allowed to compete. Williams himself seems keen to be involved again, taking to X to share a photo of himself watching the senior tournament and writing: 'I should be there, next year.' When asked by one fan whether he could persuade seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry to feature alongside him, he cheekily responded: 'He wouldn't get past the first round.' While few professional players take up the option of competing in the senior event, Williams could in theory claim two world titles in the space of a few weeks if he does take part next year, having banked £18,000 for his 2015 triumph. A statement by the WSS on their separation from the World Snooker tour read: 'Following a request from World Seniors Snooker to include players currently inside the top 64 on the World Rankings, and attempts to negotiate these changes to allow WST and WSS to continue in partnership, a compromise was unable to be met. 'WSS is aware some tour players within the top 64, and over the age of 45, have approached WST to request permission to play in WSS Events. Also the WPBSA Players Board were supportive of the changes in the WST Tour players contract, which allow any third party promoter to invite any tour player irrespective of their ranking position, should also apply to WSS. 'WST extended the option to terminate the agreement which WSS have chosen to exercise," it continued. "As a result, both parties have mutually agreed to an early termination of the Sanctioning Agreement, which will take effect on May 12, following the conclusion of the 2025 World Seniors Snooker Championship. Article continues below 'WST and WSS remain committed to the sport of snooker and recognise the contributions of players at all levels. Both organisations sincerely appreciate the support of players, fans, and stakeholders and look forward to continuing to celebrate the rich history and future of the game.'
Daily Record
22-04-2025
- Sport
- Daily Record
Snooker news as Jimmy White taken back by player 'like Tiger Woods' and Kyren Wilson gives honest truth
News and views from day four of the World Snooker Championship as Ronnie O'Sullivan begins his quest for an eighth Crucible crown against bitter rival Ali Carter The World Snooker Championship has seen plenty of drama before Ronnie O'Sullivan even took to the table. Big names have already crashed out, including Kyren Wilson, who suffered a shock first-round defeat to Lei Peifan on the opening day. Another ex-Crucible king, Neil Robertson, has also been ousted, defeated by Chris Wakelin, while last year's runner-up, Jak Jones, was sent packing by formidable Chinese qualifier Zhao Xintong. The most anticipated match of the first round kicks off on Tuesday as O'Sullivan returns to competitive action for the first time since January, facing off against long-time adversary Ali Carter. Here's a round-up of the latest news and views from the Crucible... Rocket eligible for another Crucible tournament O'Sullivan could have the chance to clinch two world championships from next year following the termination of an agreement between the World Snooker Tour (WST) and World Seniors Snooker (WSS). A pact between the tours allowed players over 40 to participate in WSS events provided they were not within the top 64 in the world rankings, including the World Seniors Championship, which is held at the Crucible shortly after the WST edition. WSS has been advocating for all players over 45 to be eligible. However, no agreement was reached, and the partnership between WSS and WST will officially conclude after this year's World Seniors Championship. The rule change will enable any player over the age of 45 to take part in WSS events, as long as they do not coincide with WST tournaments. This means snooker stars, including O'Sullivan, 49, John Higgins, 49, and Mark Williams, 50, are set to be eligible for dual world championship action from 2026. Wilson weighing up BBC snub Wilson, reeling from his unexpected early exit, is reconsidering his role as a pundit for the BBC during the tournament. The outgoing champion expressed his reluctance after losing to Lei, stating: "I'm meant to be working for the BBC. I don't know. I don't really want to be there. "This is extremely tough to take. It really hurts. I've such a strong record at the Crucible. I'm tough to beat here. I cannot think of anything worse than snooker right now. I have tried to be the best ambassador possible but now it's trying to fit in a bit of quality family time." Should Wilson honour his commitment, he might find himself alongside rival Shaun Murphy, a regular BBC commentator. On the eve of the tournament, Wilson branded Murphy's conduct during January's Masters final as "unprofessional". The accusation left Murphy furious. Tiger Woods comparison Jimmy White has drawn parallels between Zhao and golf icon Tiger Woods following the Chinese star's impressive return to the Crucible. The 28-year-old is rebuilding his career after returning to the game following his suspension for his minor role in the sport's match-fixing scandal. White praised the former UK champion on TNT Sports, saying: "He had the situation where he did not play for a couple of years, but he is the best striker [of a cue ball] I think I have ever seen. "Every now and again in sport you get people like [Seve] Ballesteros, Tiger Woods, and in snooker you have got Ronnie O'Sullivan. Now this kid has come along. He is a phenomenal player, a phenomenal scorer, we just love everything about him." Williams to undergo surgery Williams is set to undergo eye surgery in an attempt to extend his career. The Welsh Potting Machine has been open about his declining vision and has recently started wearing contact lenses. Following his first-round win over Wu Yize, he said: "I've tried playing with contacts but it's very difficult and really uncomfortable in my eyes. "I'm booked in on 12 June, I think, to get a lens replacement. If everything goes OK, hopefully that could prolong my career for another four or five years. That's what I'm hoping anyway." Davis predicts changing of the guard Steve Davis has spotted signs of an impending generational shift in the sport. Commenting during Higgins' tense win against Joe O'Connor, Davis suggested that fresh faces like O'Connor are poised to usurp the old guard in the rankings. Higgins managed to seal the win this time, but rising talents are increasingly challenging established professionals like him, Williams and O'Sullivan. Davis said on the BBC: "The general trend is towards a changing of the guard in this game. A lot of younger players coming through are getting a load of experience. "Some of the more established players - they're still great players - but they're up against it more often. So there's going to be a lot of changing in the ranking list over the next couple of years. It could look completely different."
Daily Mirror
22-04-2025
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Snooker news with Mark Williams to undergo surgery as Steve Davis issues warning on BBC
The latest news and views from the World Snooker Championship as Ronnie O'Sullivan prepares to make his long-awaited return to action against bitter rival Ali Carter The World Snooker Championship has already seen plenty of twists and turns, even before Ronnie O'Sullivan's return to action. Big names have taken a tumble, including Kyren Wilson, who fell prey to the infamous 'Crucible curse', suffering a shocking first round defeat to Lei Peifan. Another ex-Crucible champion, Neil Robertson, has also been knocked out while last year's runner-up, Jak Jones, was ousted by formidable Chinese qualifier Zhao Xintong. The most anticipated match of the first round kicks off on Tuesday as O'Sullivan returns to competitive action for the first time since January, facing off against long-time adversary Ali Carter. World Championship alternative for Rocket O'Sullivan might have the chance to bag two world championships from next year following the termination of an agreement between the World Snooker Tour (WST) and World Seniors Snooker (WSS). This pact allowed players over 40 to participate in WSS events, provided they were not within the top 64 in the world rankings, including the World Seniors Championship, which is held at the Crucible after the WST version. WSS has been lobbying for all players over 45 to be eligible. However, no agreement was reached, and the partnership between WSS and WST will officially conclude after this year's World Seniors Championship. It will hand a green light to all players over 45 to take part in WSS events, provided they don't coincide with any WST tournaments. This opens the door to the likes of 49-year-old Ronnie O'Sullivan, John Higgins, 49, and Mark Williams, 50, to compete in both world championships from 2026. Wilson ponders BBC decision Wilson is weighing up ditching his punditry role with the BBC. Following his first round exit, the Warrior admitted he needed a complete break from snooker, saying: "I'm meant to be working for the BBC. I don't know. I don't really want to be there. "This is extremely tough to take. It really hurts. I've such a strong record at the Crucible. I'm tough to beat here. I cannot think of anything worse than snooker right now." If he does fulfil his BBC commitment, he could end up working with Shaun Murphy. The pair have been embroiled in a war of words after Wilson, on the eve of the tournament, branded Murphy's behaviour during January's Masters final "unprofessional". A furious Murphy has hit back at the claim, vowing to take the matter up in person with Wilson. Qualifier likened to Tiger Woods Jimmy White has showered praise on Zhao Xintong, likening him to golf icon Tiger Woods following his return to the Crucible. The Whirlwind was effusive in his admiration for the young Chinese talent, who is reviving his career following his ban for a minor role in the sport's match-fixing scandal. The 2021 UK champion impressively dispatched 16th seed Jones, prompting White to tell TNT Sports: "He had the situation where he did not play for a couple of years, but he is the best striker [of a cue ball] I think I have ever seen. "Every now and again in sport you get people like Ballesteros, Tiger Woods, and in snooker you have got Ronnie O'Sullivan. Now this kid has come along. He is a phenomenal player, a phenomenal scorer, we just love everything about him." Davis expecting big changes Steve Davis reckons the landscape of the sport will alter drastically over the next few years. The six-time world champion made the prediction during veteran Higgins' first round victory over Joe O'Connor. While the four-time Crucible champion got over the line, O'Connor is the type of player who could climb up the rankings as legends like Higgins come towards the end of their illustrious careers. "The general trend is towards a changing of the guard in this game," said Davis on the BBC. "A lot of younger players coming through are getting a load of experience. Some of the more established players... They're still great players, but they're up against it more often. "So there's going to be a lot of changing in the ranking list over the next couple of years. It could look completely different." Legend set for surgery One of those legends, Williams, is hoping to extend his career by undergoing eye surgery. The Welshman has made no secret of his fading eyesight and recently took to wearing contact lenses. Speaking after his first round victory over Wu Yize, he said: "I've tried playing with contacts but it's very difficult and really uncomfortable in my eyes. "I'm booked in on 12 June, I think, to get a lens replacement. If everything goes OK, hopefully that could prolong my career for another four or five years."
