Former world champion Ken Doherty has announced his retirement from professional snooker. The 56-year-old won the World Championship in 1997 and has spent more that three decades on the professional circuit.
Doherty recently took part in the World Senior’s Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, where he was defeated by seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in the first round. Whilst confirming that he will still take part in seniors events, Doherty has admitted that now is the right time to retire from the professional tour.
“It’s come to that time and I’ve decided to call it a day on the main tour,” Doherty revealed in an emotional interview with the Irish Independent. “I’m still going to play on the seniors, but on the main tour, the time has come.
“I probably should have hung up the cue a few years ago. But I just love the game, love playing, doing the exhibitions. That will never change, but it’s just time to call an end to the career and say that’s enough.”
Away from the professional game, Doherty has been a regular figure on TV, forming a career in broadcasting with the BBC. The 56-year-old has been a regular on BBC’s coverage of the World Championship at the Crucible, commentating alongside the likes of Steve Davis, Dennis Taylor, John Parrott and Stephen Hendry.
Doherty admitted to having hopes of competing at the tournament next year, before realising it’s the right time to retire from the professional game. “The goal was always just to play finally at the Crucible for one more year, and 2027 is the anniversary, but I just don’t think I’m able to do it any more. That’s the problem. The guys are too good,’ he said.
“There’s so many young guys coming up. They have the youth on the side. I don’t any more.
“You’re beating your head against a brick wall and it’s just not going to happen. I enjoy doing the broadcasting as well, so I’ll be there next year, whatever happens.”
He added: “I’ve had a great time. I want to thank everybody, obviously, for all the support over the years. It’s been magnificent, not only here in Ireland, but all over the world.”