Iconic BBC commentator broadcasts instant retirement with emotional assertion
Ken Doherty has a made a decision on quitting snooker with the BBC commentator speaking about his decision in an interview
BBC commentator Ken Doherty has announced his retirement from snooker(Image: Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
Former world champion Ken Doherty has declared his retirement from professional snooker. The 56-year-old, who clinched the World Championship in 1997, has spent over three decades on the professional circuit.
Doherty recently competed in the World Senior’s Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, where he was ousted by seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in the first round. While confirming that he will continue to participate in seniors events, Doherty has conceded that now is the appropriate 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 disclosed in a heartfelt interview with the Irish Independent. “I’m still going to play on the seniors, but on the main tour, the time has come.
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“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 scene, Doherty has been a familiar face on TV, carving out a broadcasting career with the BBC. The 56-year-old has been a regular on BBC’s coverage of the World Championship at the Crucible, providing commentary alongside the likes of Steve Davis, Dennis Taylor, John Parrott and Stephen Hendry.
Doherty confessed to harbouring ambitions of taking part in the tournament next year, before accepting it was the right moment to step away from the professional circuit. “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.
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“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 continued: “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.”
