The controversial comeback attempt of disgraced snooker star Stephen Lee has been decisively shut down by the sport's authorities. The former world number five, serving a 12-year ban for match-fixing, saw his hopes of playing in an exhibition match against Thai legend James Wattana extinguished by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA).
The WPBSA confirmed to the Mirror that Lee's suspension remains absolute, prohibiting him from participating in any snooker activity under its jurisdiction, including seemingly informal exhibition games. This ruling effectively bars him from any form of public play until his ban concludes in October 2034.
Wattana's Plea Falls on Deaf Ears
James Wattana, a former top-10 player himself, had publicly advocated for the match, arguing it would help raise his profile in his native Thailand. However, the WPBSA's stance was unequivocal. A spokesperson stated the ban is comprehensive, designed to prevent Lee from "deriving any financial gain or benefiting from the sport in any way" during his suspension.
The decision highlights the zero-tolerance approach taken by snooker's governing body. Lee was initially found guilty of fixing seven matches in 2009, with the subsequent investigation revealing one of the most significant corruption cases in the sport's history.
A Lengthy Exile from the Sport
Stephen Lee's ban, which began in 2013, is one of the longest and most severe ever handed down in professional snooker. Now 49 years old, he will be 61 by the time his suspension is finally lifted, making a competitive return to the professional tour highly improbable.
This latest episode underscores the WPBSA's commitment to upholding the integrity of snooker, sending a clear message that penalties for corruption are severe and non-negotiable, even years after the initial verdict.
