Lockdown snookered Gilbert – but proved big break for Gould

The return of fans to the Crucible for the first day of the world snooker championship in Sheffield today provides cause for cautious optimism that sport’s lockdown year might finally be drawing to a close.

But for two of the players preparing to feature in the opening sessions, it also represents a significant point on their own mental health journeys, and one which yields dramatically contrasting reactions.

Former semi-finalist David Gilbert, who starts against Chris Wakelin, has admitted “hating every minute” of the lockdown and struggling to find the motivation to continue playing to a reasonable standard as a result.

“Without a crowd there’s been no buzz at tournaments and it’s felt as flat as a pancake,” Gilbert said. “It’s not helped me in any way whatsoever. I’ve never felt so bored in all my life.”

But for Martin Gould, who kicks off his 11th Crucible campaign against Masters champion Yan Bingtao, the shut-out season has had the opposite effect, resurrecting his love for the game eight months after admitting he felt “ashamed and pathetic” to be struggling with his mental health.

So much has Gould flourished in the new environment that he is distinctly less than enthusiastic about the fact that the Crucible will be 33% full today, theoretically rising to 100% for the final.

Gould said: “I’ve really enjoyed playing in front of nobody – it’s been like going down the club.”

David Gilbert.

Martin Gould.