Snooker star vows to bare all

London – Veteran two-time world snooker champion Mark Williams (above) vowed if he reaches this year’s final to appear naked before the world’s media.

The 43-year-old – champion in 2000 and 2003 – made the pledge after seeing off journeyman Englishman Robert Milkins 13-7 in their second round clash.

Williams will play Ali Carter – conqueror of five-time champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in the second round – in what is the Welshman’s eighth quarterfinal at the championships at The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.

“I would come in here naked and do the press conference,” said Williams, bidding to reach his first world championship semifinal since 2011.

Williams was in a jocular mood remarking he would do his best not to earn a slap from Carter, who was involved in a heated exchange with O’Sullivan during their second round match.

“I might have to walk sideways back to my chair a couple of times in case he gives me a dig, but apart from that I’ll be fine,” joked Williams.

Williams said he could scarcely believe he had reached the last eight only a year after he considered calling time on his career such was his lack of form – the nadir when he failed to reach the 2017 world championships.

“Excellent how many more times am I going to get to the quarterfinals? Not many,” said Williams.

“I am going to enjoy it more than the others. At my age one has to cherish these moments.” –