CRUCIBLE-BOUND NOPPON PUT BACK ON CUE BY SHRINK
>> Thai cueist Noppon Saengkham says he owes the recent upturn in his fortunes to consultations with a psychotherapist.
Noppon, ranked No.72 in the world, became the only fourth Thai player ever to qualify for the last-32 final stage of the world professional championship at the Crucible in the 40-year history of the tournament.
The Thai realised his dream of featuring in the finals of the 100-million-baht tournament at the iconic Crucible theatre by rallying from a 6-3 deficit to edge Welshman Lee Walker 10-8 in the last qualifying round for the event on Wednesday.
After his win, Noppon said: “The first 4-5 months of this season were very tough on me. I couldn’t make out what was wrong and kept losing games despite playing well. I guess it was all luck.
“I am sincerely grateful to the people who kept faith in me and kept pushing me.”
Noppon, who is now guaranteed a place among the top 64 and another season in the top flight of professional snooker, has revealed that he has been consulting a psychologist.
“It has worked for sure,” said the 24-yearold Thai. “I am far more relaxed now. The doctor would send me audio clips on a daily basis and the results of the therapy have been encouraging.”
Noppon, who is now guaranteed an 800,000-baht payday, said he had another reason to work hard as well.
“All my life I have seen my parents toil for the sake of our family. They are into their 60s now and still working. I think it is time for them to take a long break.”
Noppon, a former world U21 champion, faces former world professional champion and No.1 Neil Robertson of Australia on Thursday morning (Thai time) in his first match.