Mark Selby considers quitting snooker after Tour Championship defeat

Mark Selby, the four-time world champion, is contemplating his future in snooker after a disappointing first-round exit at the Tour Championship. Selby, 40, expressed his frustration after losing 10-8 to Gary Wilson, stating, “If I carry on playing like that, that will be it for me for sure.”

Selby, who won the Championship League in March, has struggled with inconsistent form this season, with his only ranking final appearance coming at the British Open in October. The Leicester-born player admitted that if he stops enjoying the game, regardless of his ranking, he will not continue playing.

The snooker star has been open about his mental health struggles and personal challenges, including the loss of a family friend to cancer, the same illness his wife has battled. Selby’s lack of consistency and enjoyment in his performances this season has led him to question whether it’s time to pursue other endeavors.

Meanwhile, Ali Carter held off Barry Hawkins to secure a 10-8 victory and set up a quarter-final clash with world number one Ronnie O’Sullivan. Three-time world champion Mark Williams also advanced to the next round after a thrilling final-frame decider against Tom Ford.

Gary Wilson, who has already claimed titles at the Scottish Open and Welsh Open this season, booked a date with Zhang Anda after defeating Selby. Despite the win, Wilson acknowledged his own struggles in the match and expressed the need to improve for his upcoming games.

As the Tour Championship continues, fans will be eager to see how the remaining players fare in the competition, with exciting matchups and intense battles expected in the coming rounds.