**Trailblazing Snooker Referee Michaela Tabb Bids Farewell to the Crucible as Colleagues Celebrate Her Legacy**
Michaela Tabb, an influential figure in the world of snooker officiating, has announced her retirement from the traditional format after a career marked by pioneering accomplishments and widespread respect across the sport. Tabb’s departure, marked at the Crucible Theatre over the weekend, has prompted tributes from some of snooker’s most recognisable figures, underlining the profound impact she has had on both the sport and the community surrounding it.
Tabb, 57, made her final appearance at the Crucible by officiating the opening frames of the World Seniors Snooker Tour final between Alfie Burden and Aaron Canavan, bringing her journey as a leading referee in snooker’s premier venues to a close. Her legacy, however, is certain to endure, not least among the many female referees and officials she has inspired over the past two decades.
A native of Somerset who later made her home in Scotland, Tabb’s name is synonymous with a series of historic firsts for women in the sport. She became the first woman ever to take charge at a world ranking snooker event and, in 2009, cemented her place in history by officiating a World Championship final at the Crucible—an achievement she would repeat in 2012. Her swift ascent began in 2002, after snooker’s governing bodies identified her potential to change the sport’s landscape.
Reflecting on her achievements and the changing face of snooker, Tabb pointed to the growing presence of talented young women in the game’s officiating ranks as both a source of pride and a reason to step aside. She explained that there was a certain satisfaction in witnessing the next generation begin to take on roles she once pioneered, ending her run with gratitude for the opportunities she’s had and the doors she has opened.
One of the most vocal tributes came from Tatiana Woollaston, herself now a highly respected referee on the snooker circuit and a favourite of multiple-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan. Woollaston, who took up snooker refereeing after years spent watching the game with her father in Belarus, expressed heartfelt appreciation for Tabb’s influence, declaring her an inspiration and a trailblazer for women everywhere who wish to participate in the sport they love.
“Every woman now involved in the sport had to have someone go first, and that was Michaela Tabb,” Woollaston shared on social media. She praised Tabb not only for redefining what was possible for female officials in snooker but also for her warmth and professionalism, adding, “Thank you, and enjoy your retirement!”
Tabb herself was candid about the emotional weight of her decision to leave the main stage. She confessed to some tears as she said goodbye to traditional snooker, although she will remain involved with the Snooker Legends 900, ensuring her insights and expertise continue to shape the game.
Woollaston’s journey has, in many ways, paralleled the path Tabb has cleared. She made her own Crucible debut during the challenging conditions of the 2020 pandemic, and at the most recent World Championship, she presided over a single-table semi-final, marking another milestone for women in the sport. This season, she also officiated her first Triple Crown final at the UK Championship—a feat that undoubtedly owes something to the work Tabb has done to make such opportunities possible for women.
Throughout her career, Tabb has not only broken down barriers but has also established herself as an exemplary official. The outpouring of respect and affection from colleagues such as Woollaston reflects just how significant her role has been in professionalising and diversifying snooker officiating.
As Tabb moves into a new phase, continuing her contributions behind the scenes, the snooker community remains grateful for her dedication. Her influence will continue to be felt each time a woman confidently steps out to officiate at the sport’s highest levels—proof that her trailblazing days have not only made history but are paving the way for future generations.