Mark Anthony Selby MBE (born June 19, 1983) is an English professional snooker player. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time and has been ranked world number one on multiple occasions. Selby has won a total of 23 ranking titles, placing him eighth on the all-time list of ranking tournament winners. He is a four-time World Snooker Champion and has won the Masters three times and the UK Championship twice, giving him a total of nine Triple Crown titles.
Early Life and Career
Mark Selby was born in Leicester, England. He began playing snooker at a young age and quickly showed promise. After winning the England Under-15 Championship in 1998, Selby turned professional in 1999 at the age of 16. He made his Crucible debut in 2005 and reached his first World Championship final in 2007, where he was runner-up to John Higgins.
Achievements
- World Champion: Selby won the World Snooker Championship in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2021.
- Triple Crown Titles: He has won nine Triple Crown titles, including the Masters (2008, 2010, 2013) and the UK Championship (2012, 2016).
- Ranking Titles: Selby has won 23 ranking titles, making him one of the most successful players in snooker history.
- Century Breaks: He has compiled more than 800 century breaks in professional competition, including five maximum breaks.
Personal Life
Mark Selby is known for his competitive and patient playing style, often relying on his defensive skills to win frames. His nickname, “The Jester from Leicester,” was given to him by journalist Richard Beare. Selby is also a pool player and was the 2006 World Eight-ball Pool Federation champion.
Mark Selby continues to be a dominant force in the world of snooker, known for his resilience and skill on the table.
