At the pool table at this World Championships, Mark Selby's form is clearly not at his peak. Facing Joe O'Connor, it was supposed to be a good matchup, but who knew that it evolved into Selby's "tragic solo". The result of the game was 6-10, and Selby was defeated, which was not only a loss in the score, but also a mental breakdown. Back then, the four-time world champion was full of confidence in every shot on the court, but now, he has spoken out in public about his intention to retire, which has made countless snooker fans heartbroken.
The start of the game was relatively smooth, with the two sides drawing 2-2, and the crowd expected to see a close contest. However, what followed was O'Connor's winning streak, with a 7-2 run that stunned people. Selby seemed to be blinded by this sudden attack, and the whole person was stunned, and he made mistakes one after another. This scene, for a former champion, is simply a nightmare reenactment.
After the match, Selby's expression was solemn, and he confessed: "From 2-2 to 7-2, I felt like I was hit with a hammer. Such a blow is really unbearable. His voice was full of disappointment, and this mood was also contagious to all the fans who supported him in the field. And the pain of this game is not just because of the loss, but more of a helplessness about the state of self and confusion about the future.
The disappointing season and the loss of the game made Selby start thinking about his career, and he said he needed to sit down with his wife, Vicky, to see what the way forward should be. Although he has not yet made a final decision, this idea of retiring is not a whim. The one-time snooker superstar is now facing a possible turning point in his career.
Selby's career has been full of glory and challenges. Since his first World Championship, every victory has not been easy. This constant pressure and challenge is a test for anyone, even a top player like Selby. Selby, who was fearless on the field back then, is now hesitating at the intersection of life. The change in his mentality is not only due to age, but also due to the fading of his passion for the game and physical and mental exhaustion.
However, after the defeat to O'Connor, Selby showed his demeanor and expressed pride in O'Connor's performance, "Even though I lost, I was happy to see him play so well. Such words not only show his generosity, but also reflect his deep feelings for athletes.
Selby has too many uncertainties in the future, but no matter what path he chooses, he is already an indelible part of the snooker world. His game, his spirit, his persistence, will be remembered by the fans. And for Selby himself, perhaps what he needs most now is a period of meditation and rest to decide the direction of his future. Whether he chooses to continue or retire, we owe him the highest respect and support.