Mark Selby Speaks Out on Teenage Trauma and His Father’s Tragic Death.

Mark Selby Speaks Out on Teenage Trauma and His Father’s Tragic Death.

 

 

Three-time world champion Mark Selby has bravely opened up about the darkest chapter of his life, revealing he considered taking his own life as a teenager following the devastating death of his father.

Selby, widely regarded as one of snooker’s greatest competitors, has spoken candidly in recent years about the emotional turmoil that shaped his early life. Long before lifting trophies at the Crucible Theatre and earning global recognition, the Leicester-born star was battling intense grief and depression behind the scenes.

Selby was just 16 when his father, David Selby, died after a long battle with cancer. The loss left a profound void in his life. His father had been his biggest supporter, driving him to tournaments across the country and nurturing his talent from a young age. When he passed away, Selby’s world was turned upside down.

The snooker star has described feeling overwhelmed, isolated and unsure how to cope with the pain. As a teenager trying to process such a life-altering loss, Selby admitted he struggled to see a future for himself. He has revealed that during that period, he experienced suicidal thoughts — a stark contrast to the composed, tactical competitor fans see at the table today.

“I didn’t know how to deal with it,” Selby has said of his grief. “At that age, you don’t really understand your emotions. I felt lost.”

Despite the darkness, snooker became both an escape and a lifeline. Throwing himself into the sport gave Selby structure and purpose at a time when he desperately needed both. The discipline of practice sessions and the focus required in competition helped him channel his emotions in a more constructive way.

Over time, his resilience began to show. Selby climbed the professional ranks and eventually achieved the ultimate dream by winning the World Snooker Championship. Each triumph carried deep personal meaning, not only as a sporting milestone but as a testament to the battles he had overcome away from the table.

Selby has also spoken openly about experiencing depression later in his career, helping to break down stigma around mental health in elite sport. In a world where athletes are often expected to appear mentally unbreakable, his honesty has been widely praised.

By sharing his story, Selby hopes to encourage others struggling in silence to seek help and speak openly about their feelings. His journey highlights that success does not make someone immune to mental health challenges — and that vulnerability can be a source of strength.

Today, Selby is not only celebrated for his tactical brilliance and competitive grit, but also for his courage in addressing painful personal experiences. From a grieving teenager who once questioned whether life was worth continuing, he has become a four-time world champion and one of snooker’s most respected figures.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it’s important to seek help from a qualified professional or contact a local support service immediately. You are not alone, and support is available.