Former world number one Mark Allen admitted his snooker career might be over due to being "in a bad place" as he was consoled in a heart-breaking interview.
The Northern Irishman, who has two Triple Crown titles to his name, was speaking to Rachel Casey after his 4-2 first-round defeat to Jordan Hall in the Northern Ireland Open, which marked his first return to action since his agonising World Championship semi-final exit to Wu Yize in May.
Asked about how he felt competing again, he told TNT Sports: "Not good if I'm honest. Really overwhelmed. I'm in a bad place at the minute, so even just to go out there and try was tough."
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAllen, 40, was visibly dejected as he spoke and indicated that the competition, in his home city, may be his last as a professional player.
"I felt like if I was going to play one last time, playing here at the Waterfront [Hall] where it all started [in] 2005, against one of my best mates, I thought that was a better way to sign out," Allen said, before confirming that he was genuinely contemplating whether to quit the sport.
He added: "I've been flooded with support, but problems are within. I just don't see a future of us sticking in it, if I'm honest.
"It's sad to say because it's all I've loved to do since I was 12, but the last few months have been really difficult, and it sort of put snooker into perspective for me. But tonight, I'm just trying to survive."
AdvertisementAdvertisementWith Allen appearing to hold back tears, TNT Sports interviewer Casey consoled Allen and has since been hailed for handling the difficult moment with real humanity and understanding.
"It's so good to see you," she said, "and I know it's so, so hard to see. But listen, there is always a road back, and you have so many friends. There are so many people there for you, and I really want you to know that everyone is behind you, Mark, always."
