Mark Allen reveals mental health clinic stay before snooker return
The former world number one spent 10 weeks in a clinic and discharged himself to compete in the Northern Ireland Open.
Mark Allen, the former world number one snooker player, has revealed he spent 10 weeks in a mental health clinic before returning to competition at the Northern Ireland Open this week. Allen made his return on Tuesday, losing in the first round to friend Jordan Brown after a five-month hiatus from the sport.
Speaking after his match, Allen, 40, described himself as being in a "bad place" and admitted he had been considering retirement. "Everything I said in that interview was true. However, rest assured I'm doing my best to turn things round," Allen stated on X on Wednesday.
He explained that he discharged himself from the clinic to prepare for the match against Brown, feeling he owed it to his daughter to play for what might have been the last time. He also cited his dedication to his 21-year professional career and the support from fans.
Allen expressed gratitude to World Snooker, particularly CEO Simon Brownell and WPBSA COO Neil Tomkins, for their support, noting that Brownell had visited him in the clinic. He acknowledged that his recovery would not be immediate, describing himself as a "work in progress" and emphasizing the need to apply the same fighting qualities he shows on the table to his personal life.
His career includes 12 ranking titles, the 2022 UK Championship, and a period ranked world number one in 2024. Prior to his break, Allen missed a match-winning black in the semi-final of the World Championship against Wu Yize.
Allen indicated he likely would not have played had he not been drawn against his friend Brown, whom he praised for his "grace and skill" during their match. He also thanked supporters for their messages and declared this the "beginning of my new journey."