Snooker star Mark Allen signals potential retirement after Northern Ireland Open defeat

OPA WIRE, Oct 21 (OPA) — Mark Allen, a former world number one, admitted his career could be nearing its end after a 4-2 defeat to Jordan Brown at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast. Visibly emotional during a post-match interview with TNT Sports, Allen confirmed he had considered the match a potential final appearance, choosing to play only because of his close friendship with his opponent.

Allen, 40, has been absent from the professional tour since his World Championship semi-final loss to Wu Yize in April. He described his current state as difficult, noting that while he has received significant support from the snooker community, his primary challenges remain internal. He stated, "I just don't see a future with snooker in it, if I'm honest. At the minute I'm just trying to survive."

The Northern Irishman has faced a series of high-profile personal and financial difficulties over the past five years. In January 2021, Allen declared bankruptcy, admitting to overspending despite career prize money earnings of £3.5 million. He has previously attributed his financial instability to excessive lifestyle spending, legal costs associated with his divorce from Kyla McGuigan, and tax liabilities.

Allen’s recent history includes a significant physical transformation, with the player losing five stone following his divorce. While he has not provided specific details regarding his current personal issues, he confirmed that his potential retirement is not linked to his performance at the Crucible. He remains one of the sport's most recognizable figures, having turned professional in 2005.