**Stephen Hendry Addresses Return Rumours, Confirms No Plans for Another Snooker Comeback**
Stephen Hendry, regarded as one of snooker’s all-time greats, has ended recent speculation about his professional future by unequivocally stating he harbours no intention of yet another return to the sport’s elite ranks. The seven-time world champion shared his candid response while conversing with Australian cue star Neil Robertson, all as part of content on Hendry’s increasingly popular YouTube channel.
The 56-year-old Scotsman, whose name is etched in snooker folklore, officially hung up his cue for the first time back in 2012. Over nearly three decades, Hendry’s competitive spirit and technical brilliance reshaped modern snooker, culminating in 18 victories at the prestigious Triple Crown Series and a record seven world titles—a tally only matched years later by Ronnie O’Sullivan.
In a move that surprised many, Hendry made his return to professional competition in 2020, taking up an invitational tour card for the World Snooker Tour. According to the man himself, the decision was motivated by improved form and a newfound confidence at the table. However, this renaissance was relatively short-lived. By 2024, after securing only three wins from 20 matches, Hendry had decided it was time to conclude his professional chapter once and for all.
During a recent light-hearted exchange with Neil Robertson on his Cue Tips YouTube channel, Hendry showcased his typical dry wit. After potting the black in a friendly frame, Robertson asked if his performance was a sign of another comeback, to which Hendry replied, simply and with a knowing smile, “No.” The moment encapsulated the relaxed and reflective mindset of a player satisfied with his place in the sport’s history.
It’s clear Hendry has shifted focus since stepping away from the tour. Rather than chasing further silverware, he now devotes much of his energy to snooker punditry and his highly engaged online audience. His YouTube channel continues to grow rapidly, closing in on 400,000 subscribers, and he also co-hosts the ‘Snooker Club’ podcast alongside comedian Mark Watson.
Despite his unparalleled record, Hendry remains refreshingly modest about his legacy. When asked to select his personal top-five snooker icons for the podcast’s Hall of Fame, he notably left himself off the list. Instead, he cited the likes of Ronnie O’Sullivan, Mark Williams, John Higgins, Mark Selby, and weighed up the merits of Judd Trump versus Steve Davis, ultimately favouring Davis for his dominance of the 1980s.
Hendry’s comments come at a time when older players have demonstrated remarkable longevity at the highest level. Mark Williams, who reached the 2025 World Snooker Championship final at the age of 50, provides a shining example of sustained excellence. Williams’ runner-up finish was seen by many as inspiration that veterans can still compete with the best; nevertheless, Hendry has dismissed any suggestion that he might be tempted to follow suit.
“I think some things are best left in the past,” Hendry recently remarked, hinting at a sense of contentment with his career achievements and the evolving role he now plays as an ambassador and analyst within the sport.
Observers suggest that Hendry’s transition to media and content creation is proving as successful as his exploits on the table. Fans new and old still flock to hear his insights and to join him for a trip down memory lane, while also keeping up with the latest developments across the snooker landscape.
Although talk of a third act remains a point of curiosity among the sport’s fanbase, Hendry’s recent statements make his position clear. The snooker legend appears firmly at peace with life after professional competition, his focus now on nurturing the game’s next generation and sharing his enduring passion with audiences worldwide.