“Play some people for twenty pounds”: Snooker pundit frustrated at ‘mystery man’ Brecel

“Play some people for twenty pounds”: Snooker pundit frustrated at ‘mystery man’ Brecel

 

 

A leading snooker pundit has voiced his frustration at the enigmatic nature of Luca Brecel, branding the former world champion a “mystery man” and urging him to test himself more regularly against the game’s elite — even if it means putting money on the line.

Brecel, who stunned the Crucible by winning the World Snooker Championship in 2023, has long been regarded as one of the sport’s most naturally gifted talents. His fluid cue action, fearless long potting and ultra-attacking mindset have drawn admiration from fans and fellow professionals alike. On his day, the Belgian Bullet is capable of dismantling anyone in the game.

Yet that brilliance has often been accompanied by inconsistency. Since his world title triumph, questions have been raised about his focus, scheduling, and hunger to dominate the sport in the way many expected after his breakthrough. It is this unpredictability that appears to have irked the outspoken pundit, who suggested that Brecel’s immense talent risks being wasted if not properly harnessed.

The comment — “Play some people for twenty pounds” — was not meant literally as a cash challenge, but rather as a call for Brecel to seek out meaningful competition more frequently. The implication is clear: raw ability alone is not enough. To build a legacy, a player must embrace the grind, sharpen their match toughness, and consistently test themselves against the very best.

Brecel has never conformed to snooker’s traditional mould. Unlike some of his more regimented rivals, he has spoken openly about wanting to enjoy life away from the table and not becoming consumed by the sport. That relaxed approach arguably freed him up during his world championship run, where he played with fearless abandon and supreme self-belief. However, maintaining that balance after reaching the pinnacle presents a different psychological challenge

The pundit’s frustration seems rooted in a sense of missed opportunity. At 29, Brecel should theoretically be entering his prime years. Many great champions use their first world title as a springboard to sustained dominance. Instead, Brecel’s form has fluctuated, with early exits in tournaments where he might previously have been considered a strong favourite.

Critics argue that snooker, more than most sports, demands relentless match practice. The tactical nuances, safety exchanges and mental endurance required over long formats can only be honed under competitive pressure. By suggesting he should “play some people,” the pundit is essentially calling for Brecel to rediscover that competitive edge — whether through more events, exhibitions, or high-stakes practice matches.

Supporters of Brecel, however, might counter that his unconventional style is precisely what makes him special. His instinctive shot selection and willingness to take risks have thrilled audiences and injected fresh excitement into the sport. Trying to mould him into a more orthodox professional could dull the very spark that carried him to world glory.

Ultimately, the debate highlights snooker’s eternal tension between talent and discipline. Brecel remains box office, a player capable of producing moments others can only dream of. But as the pundit’s remarks underline, greatness is not measured by isolated peaks. It is defined by sustained excellence.

Whether Brecel answers that challenge — metaphorical £20 or otherwise — could determine whether he becomes a one-time champion or a dominant force of his generation.