In a heartwarming twist that has delighted fans across the snooker world, Chris Wakelin, one of the sport’s rising stars, has welcomed his first child with his wife. The joyous arrival comes during what many consider to be a breakthrough season for the 32-year-old Englishman, whose steady performances and growing confidence had marked him as one of the players to watch on the professional tour.
While most of the snooker headlines in recent months have revolved around tournament battles, upsets, and retirements, Wakelin’s announcement has shifted the tone to one of celebration and family pride. Posting the news across his social media accounts, Wakelin shared a touching photo of himself, his wife, and their newborn, writing: “The proudest day of my life. Our beautiful baby has arrived safe and healthy. My heart is full.”
A New Chapter for Wakelin
Chris Wakelin’s journey through professional snooker has been anything but straightforward. Known for his grit, determination, and humble beginnings, he has long been admired by fans for his perseverance on and off the table. But 2024–25 has been widely described as his breakthrough season, with a string of strong runs in ranking events and several victories over top-tier opponents.
His rise in form had many tipping him for a maiden major final appearance. Yet, Wakelin made it clear that family comes first. In a candid interview shortly after the birth, he explained: “Snooker has given me so much, but nothing compares to this moment. I want to be here fully for my wife and our baby. The tour can wait — this is life’s biggest trophy.”
Putting Career on Hold
Reports suggest that Wakelin will be taking an extended break from professional competition to focus on fatherhood. While some players choose to juggle family life with their careers almost immediately, Wakelin and his wife have decided that this period is about cherishing every moment with their newborn.
“It’s not about missing tournaments,” Wakelin emphasized. “It’s about being present for my family. When the time is right, I’ll return to the table. But right now, all that matters is here at home.”
Reactions from the Snooker World
The announcement sparked an outpouring of congratulations from fellow players, fans, and officials. Judd Trump, one of Wakelin’s frequent opponents, commented: “Huge congratulations to Chris and his wife. Family comes first, always. Wishing them nothing but happiness.”
Shaun Murphy, never shy with words, added humor to his message: “Forget 147s — sleepless nights are the new challenge. Best of luck, mate, and enjoy every second.”
Even the World Snooker Tour released a statement applauding Wakelin’s decision: “Chris Wakelin has been a fantastic ambassador for our sport. We congratulate him and his family on this wonderful news, and we fully support his decision to prioritize fatherhood.”
Fans Share in the Joy
On social media, fans flooded Wakelin’s posts with love and congratulations. Many remarked how refreshing it was to see a player unapologetically put family first in an era dominated by relentless sporting schedules. Some even shared their own stories of balancing parenthood with demanding careers, praising Wakelin for his honesty and courage.
One fan wrote: “Chris may be stepping away from snooker for a while, but he’s just won the greatest match of his life.”
Though Wakelin’s absence will be felt on the professional circuit, his fans remain optimistic about his return. Known for his resilience, few doubt that when he comes back, he will do so with a renewed sense of purpose and perspective.
As for now, Wakelin is not thinking about rankings, tournaments, or titles. Instead, his focus is on late-night feeds, first smiles, and the small milestones that every new parent treasures.
In the grand scheme of his career, this may be a pause, but for Wakelin and his family, it’s the beginning of an entirely new chapter.
And as the snooker community rallies around him, one thing is certain: Chris Wakelin may be away from the baize for now, but he has just made the biggest break of his life.