Former World Champion Ken Doherty Calls Time on 36-Year Snooker Career

Ken Doherty, the 1997 World Champion, has officially confirmed his retirement from professional snooker, bringing an end to a distinguished 36-year tenure in the sport. Now 56, the Irishman achieved the sport’s highest honor by defeating Stephen Hendry 18-12 in the 1997 Crucible final, a victory made even more memorable by the fact that the cue he used to win cost just £2.

Doherty, who turned professional in 1990, enjoyed a highly successful career, securing six ranking titles and a total of 17 championships. His dominance extended to other major tournaments as well; he reached the World Championship final again in 1998 and 2003, while also making three UK Championship finals and finishing as the runner-up at the Masters on two occasions. At his peak, he reached number two in the world rankings during the 2006-07 season.

In recent years, however, Doherty’s presence on the main tour was sustained by an invitational card, allowing him to balance his playing schedule with punditry duties as his ranking slipped. Having not qualified for the World Championship since 2014, the realization that a final appearance at the Crucible was no longer attainable prompted his decision to hang up his cue.

Reflecting on his choice, Doherty expressed a mix of emotions. "It was sad initially when I made the decision, but I'm happy with it now," he said. "I wasn't going anywhere and even if I played for another couple of years, I'd come to the realisation I wasn't going to get any better."

He admitted that the timing might have been later than ideal but emphasized his enduring passion for the game. "I wasn't going to compete like I used to. I probably should have done it a few years ago, but I love the game. I love competing and I love playing," Doherty added. "I was hoping something would change but it didn't. I've had a great time playing and have some wonderful memories. I'm going to miss it for sure, but it has come as a relief."

Doherty holds a unique place in snooker history as the only player from the Republic of Ireland to win the World Championship. His journey began in the late 1980s when he relocated to London to chase his ambitions. "I came over with a cue, my bag and £500 in my pocket. That was all I had. I was seeking my dreams and didn't know what to expect," he recalled.

The 1997 victory was the culmination of a childhood aspiration inspired by fellow Irishmen. "When I first picked up a cue as a kid, winning the World Championship was my dream," he explained. "After Alex Higgins winning it in 1982 and Dennis Taylor in 1985, these were inspirational moments for me. To emulate what they achieved and lift that cup up was a real honour and a sense of pride."

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-03 15:40:30 UTC