Welsh snooker star Mark Williams and Scottish snooker legend Stephen Hendry has captured the attention of fans. Williams, a three-time world champion, is known for his calm demeanor on the table, but his biting response to Hendry’s recent critique shows that even the most composed players have their breaking point.
Stephen Hendry, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in snooker history, with seven World Championship titles to his name, hasn’t been shy about voicing his opinions as a pundit in recent years. In a television segment, Hendry commented on Williams’ recent performances, questioning his dedication and suggesting that Williams might not have the drive he once had.
Hendry’s criticism seemed to imply that Williams, now in his late 40s, was past his peak and perhaps more interested in entertaining the crowd with his relaxed, laid-back style than seriously competing for major titles. “You wonder how long he can keep playing at this level,” Hendry remarked. “He seems to enjoy the game but lacks that killer instinct we used to see in his younger days.”
Williams, never one to mince words, hit back in true style. Taking to social media, the Welshman delivered a cutting retort that quickly went viral among snooker fans. “Funny coming from someone who quit when things got tough,” Williams tweeted, referencing Hendry’s retirement from competitive snooker in 2012 after a period of poor form, before making a brief return in 2021.
Williams didn’t stop there. In a follow-up interview, he expanded on his feelings, expressing his frustration with critics who, in his view, fail to appreciate the difficulties of competing at the highest level well into their 40s and beyond. “It’s easy to criticize from the sidelines when you’re not the one putting in the hours, the graft. I’m still here, still competing, and I still believe I can win titles.”
His fiery response struck a chord with many in the snooker community, who view Williams as a player who has not only remained competitive into his 40s but has also adapted his game in line with the changing nature of the sport. Fans flocked to support the Welshman, praising his resilience and willingness to stand up for himself in the face of criticism.
This public spat is emblematic of a larger debate within snooker regarding the longevity of careers and the differences in mentality between past and present players. Hendry, known for his ruthless, all-business approach during his heyday in the 1990s, has often been critical of modern players who appear more relaxed, playing with flair and emotion rather than his trademark precision and intensity.
Williams, by contrast, has embraced a more laid-back approach in his later years, often joking about his love of late-night games, curry, and beer. Despite this casual attitude, he has continued to rack up impressive results, including his memorable third World Championship win in 2018 at the age of 43.
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