Mark Allen Confronts Personal Battles After Northern Ireland Open Defeat
Snooker star reveals ongoing mental health treatment and career uncertainty following recent loss to Jordan Brown.
Sarah Connor
Mark Allen faced a 4-2 defeat against Jordan Brown at the Northern Ireland Open.
Allen described himself as 'in a bad place' after his recent defeat. He stated he was 'just trying to survive,' seeing no future in the sport, and indicated the match against Jordan Brown could mark his final appearance.
Despite these struggles, Allen felt an obligation to his family, particularly his daughter, and his fans to compete in Belfast. He expressed profound gratitude, stating, 'My daughter kept me going, the therapists, staff and all the other patients were amazing and helped me through some really dark days.'
Allen, who holds 12 ranking tournament wins, including UK and Masters titles, and three World Championship semi-final appearances, now works to 'turn things around.' He claims he sees the light and views this as the start of a new journey.
He plans to continue his treatments. Allen affirmed, 'My fight and determination on the table has always been there for ones to see. I need to show those same fighting qualities off it now for a while.'
My fight and determination on the table has always been there for ones to see. I need to show those same fighting qualities off it now for a while.
Allen provided an update on Wednesday morning following his interview. He stated he is 'not OK, but I'm OK in that itself,' maintaining he is not leaving the sport yet and has much to live for.