In a stunning announcement on June 1, 2025, Chinese snooker legend Ding Junhui revealed his immediate retirement from professional snooker, citing personal reasons. The news has sent shockwaves through the snooker community, leaving fans and fellow players alike heartbroken and stunned.
Ding Junhui, born in 1987 in Yixing, Jiangsu, China, turned professional in 2003 at the age of 16. He quickly rose to prominence, becoming the first Asian player to be ranked world number one in 2014. Throughout his illustrious career, Ding amassed 15 major ranking titles, including three UK Championships (2005, 2009, 2019) and the 2011 Masters. He also made history by becoming the first Asian player to reach the final of the World Championship in 2016, though he narrowly lost to Mark Selby in a closely contested match. ([Wikipedia][1])
Ding’s impact on the sport extended beyond his individual achievements. His victory at the 2005 China Open, where he defeated seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry, marked a pivotal moment in snooker history. The match was broadcast to over 110 million viewers in China, igniting a surge in the sport’s popularity and inspiring a new generation of Chinese players. ([Totally Snookered][2])
**Recent Triumphs**
Despite recent challenges, Ding demonstrated his enduring skill and determination. In November 2024, he clinched the International Championship title in Nanjing, defeating Chris Wakelin 10–7 in the final. This victory marked his first ranking title in five years and underscored his resilience and commitment to the sport. ([Sporting Life][3])
**The Announcement**
Ding’s retirement announcement was made through a heartfelt statement on his official social media channels. While he did not delve into specific personal reasons, he expressed deep gratitude for the support of his fans, family, and colleagues throughout his career. He emphasized the importance of personal well-being and the need to prioritize family and health at this stage of his life.
**Reactions from the Snooker Community**
The news of Ding’s retirement has elicited an outpouring of emotions from the snooker community. Fellow players, coaches, and fans have taken to social media to express their admiration and respect for Ding’s contributions to the sport. Many have shared personal anecdotes and memories, highlighting his professionalism, humility, and the positive impact he had on the global snooker scene.
As Ding Junhui steps away from professional snooker, his legacy remains firmly entrenched in the annals of the sport. His achievements have paved the way for future generations of players, particularly from Asia, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. While his presence at the table will be sorely missed, Ding’s contributions to snooker have left an indelible mark on the sport’s history.([Totally Snookered][2])
Fans and colleagues alike wish Ding Junhui all the best in his future endeavors, hoping that he finds happiness and fulfillment in his personal life. His sudden departure serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of balancing professional commitments with personal well-being.
[1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ding_Junhui?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Ding Junhui”
[2]: https://www.totallysnookered.com/sport/snooker/features/snookers-biggest-break-the-moment-ding-junhui-changed-the-sport-forever-4998481?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Snooker’s biggest break – The moment Ding Junhui changed the sport forever”
[3]: https://www.sportinglife.com/snooker/news/141-winner-for-sporting-life-readers-as-ding-junhui-claims-international-championship-title/221714?utm_source=chatgpt.com “14/1 winner for Sporting Life readers as Ding Junhui claims International Championship title”