Mark Allen reveals 10-week mental health clinic stay after snooker return

Mark Allen has disclosed that he spent 10 weeks in a mental health clinic before returning to competitive snooker at the Northern Ireland Open. According to BBC Sport's reporting of his statement on X on Wednesday, the former world number one intends to continue treatment while working on his recovery. His return to the table came after a five-month absence.

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Allen lost to his friend Jordan Brown in the first round on Tuesday and said afterwards that he was considering retirement. In Wednesday's statement, the 40-year-old said his post-match comments accurately reflected his situation, while stressing that he was trying to improve it. He did not announce a retirement decision, leaving his playing future unresolved after his first tournament back.

The Northern Irish player said he had discharged himself from the clinic to prepare for the match against Brown. He explained that appearing mattered to his family, particularly his daughter, and to supporters who had followed his professional career. He wanted them to have the opportunity to watch him compete in what he acknowledged could prove to be his final appearance.

Allen also described the support he had received during treatment. He credited his daughter with helping him keep going and thanked therapists, staff and fellow patients for their help through difficult periods. He said recovery would take time and that he now needed to bring the determination associated with his performances on the table to his life away from competition.

His statement also recognised the backing of World Snooker and officials who had stayed in regular contact. Allen singled out chief executive Simon Brownell, who visited him at the clinic, and World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association chief operating officer Neil Tomkins. He thanked people who had sent supportive messages and praised Brown's conduct during their match.

Allen's 21 years as a professional have brought 12 ranking titles, including the 2022 UK Championship, and a spell as world number one in 2024. His previous tournament appearance was at the World Championship, where he missed a black that would have secured victory in his semi-final against eventual champion Wu Yize. For now, Allen's stated plan is to continue treatment, with no final decision on retirement announced.