Concern for former world No.1 after ‘horrible’ interview goes viral
A former world No.1 snooker player has spoken after sparking widespread concern with an emotional interview on Wednesday.
Viewers took to social media to urge Northern Irish great Mark Allen to seek help after he struggled to speak through tears following a loss at the Northern Ireland Open.
Snooker player Mark Allen speaks to TNT Sports presenter Rachel Casey. TNT Sports
The 40-year-old later revealed he had been discharged from a mental health clinic specifically so he could play against his close friend Jordan Brown at the tournament.
Allen fronted up on TNT Sports following his loss to Brown and was asked how he was feeling.
“Not good if I’m honest... really overwhelmed. I’m in a bad place at the minute,” he said as he fought back tears.
“Even to just go out there and try was tough. If I wasn’t playing Jordan I wouldn’t have come back.”
Allen then revealed he would likely retire from the sport.
The interview ended with TNT Sports presenter Rachel Casey giving Allen a hug as she, too, became emotional and showed obvious concern for the former world champion.
The video was posted to social media and evoked an outpouring of concern, with former professional footballer Paul Cooke among those agreeing it was “so horrible to watch”.
Hours later, Allen took to social media himself to explain his state of mind.
The loss to Brown was his first professional appearance since a devastating semi-final defeat at the World Championship in May, where he missed a match-winning black against the eventual champion.
He says following that loss, he checked into a mental health clinic to seek help.
“Everything I said in that interview was true. However, rest assured I’m doing my best to turn things around,” he wrote.
Snooker star Mark Allen posted to social media. Getty
“I have been in a mental health clinic for the last 10 weeks, finally discharging so I could attempt to play in Belfast. I owed that to my family, in particular my daughter to see me play for what could be the last time.
“I’ve been much worse in the last few months than you saw yesterday. I literally didn’t see a future in anything… My daughter kept me going, the therapists, staff and all the other patients were amazing and helped me through some really dark days. I see the light now that I couldn’t see before.
“I’m a work in progress! My fight and determination on the (snooker) table has always been there for ones to see. I need to show those same fighting qualities off it now for a while.”
Allen also paid credit to his friend Brown, who he says had been aware of his mental health struggles prior to their match.
Brown spoke to TNT Sports following the Allen interview and also had to fight back tears as he spoke about his long-time friend and opponent.
If you or anyone you know needs immediate support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or via lifeline.org.au. In an emergency, call 000
