**Trailblazing Snooker Referee Michaela Tabb Steps Down from Crucible Duties, Honours the Next Generation**
Legendary snooker referee Michaela Tabb has formally announced her retirement from officiating in traditional snooker, drawing the curtain on a remarkable career that has spanned over two decades and seen her break new ground for women in the sport. Tabb, aged 57, presided over her final match at the historic Crucible Theatre during the recent World Seniors Snooker Tour (WSST) final, marking the end of an era for both herself and the sport she helped transform.
Tabb’s decision was confirmed after she officiated the first five frames of the seniors’ final between Alfie Burden and Aaron Canavan on Sunday. Following those frames, she handed over the refereeing responsibilities to her colleague, Proletina Velichkova. Her departure is not only a personal milestone, but it also symbolises the growing visibility and participation of women in the snooker refereeing community.
The Somerset-born Scottish official has expressed both pride and relief at the prospect of stepping aside after a groundbreaking run. Speaking candidly before her final appearance at the Crucible in Sheffield, Tabb stated, “I’m excited to hang up my gloves, if I’m being honest, for traditional snooker. I think I’ve done my time.” She indicated that she looks forward to seeing new faces take to the table, citing the rise of other women referees as a significant factor.
“It’s been like 15 years that we’ve been waiting for that to sort of happen,” she remarked, referencing the long-awaited moment for another woman to take charge of a World Championship final. “I’m happy now to let the young guns do it.” Despite her retirement from traditional snooker, Tabb has confirmed she will continue to contribute to the sport through her involvement with Snooker Legends and the 900 series.
Reflecting on her career, Tabb admitted to feeling emotional about her departure. “Honestly, it could make me cry, and I was so lucky to have two finals and so many other matches as well,” she said. Emphasising the privilege of her experience, she paid tribute to the opportunities and memories the sport has provided her.
Michaela Tabb first entered the snooker limelight in 2002 after being fast-tracked onto the ranking circuit. She swiftly made history, becoming the first woman to officiate a world ranking event and, later, taking charge of two Crucible finals in 2009 and 2012—terrains previously uncharted by women in professional snooker. After 14 years with the World Snooker Tour, Tabb stepped away from her regular role in 2015, but her influence has endured.
Figures across the sport have praised Tabb’s legacy. After her last appearance, esteemed commentator Dennis Taylor highlighted her contribution, noting, “She’s been a wonderful referee and she’s encouraged so many ladies to come forward. There are now up to 10 from around the world, and it’s all down to Michaela.”
This changing landscape was exemplified in the most recent World Snooker Championship final, where 32-year-old Desislava Bozhilova was handed the officiating duties—an appointment Tabb herself welcomed as a positive step. Similarly, Tatiana Woollaston, who refereed the 2024 UK Championship final, acknowledged Tabb’s impact on social media, writing, “For all women who now have an opportunity to get involved in the sport they love, there had to be THE FIRST and that was Michaela Tabb. Inspiration, history maker and an amazing person! Thank you and enjoy the retirement!”
While Tabb’s retirement from traditional matches marks the end of an influential chapter, she leaves behind a sport more inclusive and more open to women than ever before. Her encouragement, example, and professionalism have paved the way for new generations of female officials to excel on the sport’s grandest stage.
Tabb’s ongoing involvement in snooker’s alternative circuits ensures she will continue to inspire and contribute to the community, albeit in new capacities. As her colleagues and fans pay tribute, it is evident that Michaela Tabb’s legacy will echo through the halls of the Crucible, as well as every snooker venue where women now stand ready to follow her pioneering path.