Four-time world champion Mark Selby has crashed out of the World Snooker Championship in the first round after recently threatening to quit the sport.
The 40-year-old was trailing 7-2 heading into today’s second session and, despite a late fight back, was unable to turn things around.
Selby lost 6-10 to fellow Leicester potter Joe O’Connor after he left himself far too much to do following his Sunday morning session.
The exit is no laughing matter for the Jester from Leicester who has threatened to call quits on his career in recent weeks.
Selby said he was considering hanging up his cue after what he described as a “pathetic” 10-8 loss to Gary Wilson in the first round of the Tour Championship earlier this month.
Speaking to ITV, he said: “I mean I was pathetic really, from start to finish. Probably one of the worst games I’ve played as a professional.
“Definitely up there for sure. If I carry on playing like that, then yeah, I won’t be enjoying it and I will be choosing a different career for sure.”
The 22-time ranking title winner went on to explain that he would have a crack at this year’s World Championships but would consider bringing an end to his time at the table if things don’t improve.
He added: “I will give the World Championship a go, but if I keep playing like that, I’m not going to carry on.
“100%, I have always said in interviews before, when it gets to the point that I’m not enjoying it, then it doesn’t matter where I am in the world rankings, I will be hanging up cue up.
“I can’t enjoy performances like that.”
The World Championship has not seen much of an improvement as he headed out in his first-round tie.
But things away from life under the intense lights of snooker aren’t easy for Selby either and his turbulent form and frustration can be understood.
The star has spoken openly about his wife Vikki’s battle with cancer and the way it has impacted him and his family.
