Snooker icons Stephen Hendry and Steve Davis provided a lively preview for the 2026 World Snooker Championship on Sunday, but the event took an unexpected turn when Hendry scolded Davis for uttering a 'forbidden' word in front of a live audience. The two legends, who share an impressive thirteen world titles between them, appeared on Hendry's Cue Tips YouTube channel, engaging in an exhibition frame within the foyer of The Crucible theatre.
Live Snooker Exhibition Sparks Heated Exchange
During the early stages of their exhibition frame, Hendry, who last competed professionally in 2024, executed a skillful shot by potting a challenging black ball and scattering the reds across the table. In response, Davis humorously remarked, "I think you should make a comeback, it's just amazing." Hendry immediately reacted with sharp disapproval, retorting, "Don't say that word – the C-word! There's plenty of C-words you could call me, but don't say comeback!" This exchange highlighted Hendry's firm stance against returning to professional play, despite his storied career.
Hendry's Career Struggles and the Yips
Many snooker enthusiasts believe Hendry retired prematurely from the sport. The seven-time World Champion initially stepped away in 2012 before making a brief comeback in 2020, only to withdraw again after four years without advancing past the second round in any ranking event. Hendry has openly attributed his difficulties to 'the yips' – involuntary spasms that disrupt his cueing technique and prevent him from performing shots accurately.
Earlier this year, Hendry, now 57, reflected on his condition, stating, "I developed yips in my game, which stopped me from being able to play half the shots probably that I wanted to play." He expressed regret over excessive coaching and conflicting advice, noting, "I wish if I could click my fingers and go back in time, I could cue like I cued when I started playing snooker." Despite these challenges, Hendry remains confident that without the yips, he could still compete at a professional level.
Punditry Roles and Future Coverage
Hendry and Davis are set to collaborate as pundits and commentators for the BBC's coverage of the World Snooker Championship, leveraging their extensive experience and rivalry from past matches. Their preview event not only entertained fans but also underscored the enduring legacy and personal battles within the sport.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures and physical ailments that can affect even the most accomplished athletes, shaping their decisions and public interactions long after their peak competitive years.
