Mark Allen has revealed that he spent 10 weeks in a mental health clinic before making his return to snooker at the Northern Ireland Open in Belfast. The 40-year-old, who reached the semi-finals of the 2026 World Championship, made his comeback on Tuesday before admitting in a television interview that he could now walk away from the sport.
Allen suffered defeat to his close friend Jordan Brown at the Northern Ireland Open. He had discharged himself from the clinic so that his daughter could see him play for what could potentially be the last time.
Emotional statement after TV interview
Following his tournament exit, Allen released a statement on social media addressing his mental health and the support he has received. He confirmed that everything he said in the interview was true and that he would continue treatment.
"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," Allen wrote.
Support from World Snooker and family
Allen thanked World Snooker for their support throughout his struggles, particularly Simon Brownell and Neil Tomkins, who remained in regular contact. He said he was "not ok" but that he had been much worse in recent months than what viewers saw in the interview.
"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 but I do now," he added.
Allen also paid tribute to Jordan Brown, saying he handled the match "with grace and skill" and that he was proud to call him a friend. Following his win, Brown described facing Allen as "easily the hardest match" of his career, adding: "I've missed him, I love him, just a great guy through and through."
Allen said he was not made to do any interviews but was given a choice and felt he owed it to everyone to speak. He confirmed he will continue his treatments going forward. Meanwhile, Ronnie O'Sullivan, Judd Trump and Mark Selby have already departed the Waterfront Hall tournament along with Allen.
