🎱 Snooker drama alert! Former world number five Stephen Lee is back on the green baize after a whopping 12-year ban for match-fixing. The 50-year-old recently competed in Thailand in an exhibition match against James Wattana, and fans can’t stop buzzing about his remarkable cue action.
Lee received his 12-year suspension in 2013 after being found guilty of fixing seven matches between 2008 and 2009. This ban was branded “the worst case of corruption” by the snooker authority, WPBSA. After serving his time, Lee showed he hasn’t lost his touch, earning a 2-1 victory and shining in a trick-shot challenge.
Footage from the match shows Lee in fine form, making impressive breaks and exhibiting the skills that once ranked him among the snooker elite. Fans chimed in with praise, saying, “Stephen can still play. Still got that wonderful cue action,” and “Wonderful player to watch.”
Is a full return to competitive snooker in the cards? Well, there are hurdles. Lee would need to settle outstanding fines with the WPBSA, totalling £125,000, to compete in official events. Though he had a chance to attempt qualification for the World Championship, his stance remains uncertain. Lee once shared his reluctance to return, citing ageing eyes and fading determination. Still, fans wonder if a comeback tour might be possible.
Despite his past, Lee insists he’s “totally innocent” of wrongdoing. Whether he gets back onto the World Snooker Tour or not, what’s indisputable is the excitement his return has generated. For now, snooker fans are thrilled at the prospect of seeing this seasoned player on the table again. 🎱✨