THE STUFF OF LEGENDS
Snooker hero Hendry on comeback trail at 51.. as Lawrie looks forward to golf’s seniors revamp
STEPHEN HENDRY says he’ll steer clear of the expectations game as the snooker legend prepares to pick up his cue again.
The 51-year-old is making a sensational comeback to the top-level game after an eight-year absence.
And the Scot could be back in World Snooker Tour action in less than three weeks’ time, with the European Masters on September 21 the first event he’s eligible to play in.
The seven- time world champion set down his chalk in 2012 after a career that yielded 36 ranking titles.
Hendry bowed out in style with a magical maximum 147 against Stuart Bingham at the Crucible only to be mauled 13-2 by fellow Scot Stephen Maguire in the last eight.
Now he has accepted an
HE’S RIGHT ON CUE Hendry invitational two-year card to return to the main circuit.
Hendry said: “I’ve always missed the buzz of competing and, although I have no expectations in terms of performance, this felt like a good time to explore getting back to the table.”
The Crucible king has been playing alongside old foes Ken Doherty and Jimmy White in the seniors game in the past couple of years. Hendry had no intention of
making a sho ck return after developing the yips and a lack of form. But working wit h renowned SightRight coach Stephen Feeney – who is credited with reviving Mark Williams’ career on top of helping Ronnie O’Sullivan – has helped Hendry rediscover his love for the sport.
The former world No.1 showed glimpses of his class during a run to the World Seniors Championship semifinals last month.
Hendry, who boasts 18 Triple Crown victories, said: “I’m excited to have the opportunity to enter some tournaments over the coming two seasons. I’ve really enjoyed picking up my cue again recently at the World Seniors and after some SightRight coaching I feel a little more confident in my game.”
Barry Hearn was quick to offer him route to return after learning of his desire to do so.
The World Snooker chairman said: “I am thrilled Stephen has decided to return to the Tour.
“He is a giant of the sport and I know that all eyes will be on him every time he takes to the table in the coming months.
“It’s great to know that Stephen’s competitive fires are still burning and given his extraordinary achievements, it was a no-brainer to offer him the opportunity to come back. I wish Stephen all the very best for the two seasons ahead.”