Snooker Legend Mark Selby Announces Immediate Retirement from Professional Snooker
In an emotional and unexpected announcement, four-time World Champion **Mark Selby** has officially confirmed his immediate retirement from professional snooker, marking the end of one of the most illustrious careers in the sport’s modern era. The 42-year-old, affectionately known as *“The Jester from Leicester,”* revealed his decision in a heartfelt statement that stunned fans and fellow players around the globe.
Selby, who turned professional in 1999, built a reputation as one of snooker’s fiercest competitors, blending tactical brilliance, mental resilience, and unshakeable determination. His career boasts **22 ranking titles**, including **four World Championships (2014, 2016, 2017, and 2021)**, placing him among the greatest players in the game’s history. Known for his gritty style and ability to thrive under pressure, Selby’s battles with legends like Ronnie O’Sullivan, John Higgins, and Judd Trump will forever be remembered as defining moments of modern snooker.
In his statement, Selby expressed deep gratitude to his fans, coaches, and family, particularly his wife Vikki and daughter Sofia, for their unwavering support throughout his career. He acknowledged that the decision was not easy but said it was “time to focus on family, health, and life beyond the table.”
Tributes have poured in from across the snooker world, with players and fans alike hailing Selby as a master tactician and a true ambassador of the sport. The World Snooker Tour also released a message honoring his extraordinary achievements and lasting influence on the game.
As the curtain falls on a remarkable journey, Mark Selby’s legacy remains undeniable — a champion defined not just by his titles, but by his courage, humility, and relentless pursuit of excellence. The world of snooker bids farewell to one of its greatest ever competitors.
