'Some people never recover from this illness' – Ben Woollaston on debilitating health battle away from snooker table
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ByEurosport
Updated 28/09/2022 at 09:18 GMT
Ben Woollaston completed a shock 4-1 victory over defending champion Mark Williams in the last 64 of the British Open before admitting he is uncertain if his health will hold up for the rest of the tournament. The world No. 44 has been battling chronic fatigue syndrome over the past 18 months and said: "I have days where I just completely crash."
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Ben Woollaston has revealed he may not recover from the chronic fatigue syndrome that has blighted his snooker career.
The world No. 43 reeled off four straight frames in a 4-1 victory over defending champion Mark Williams in the last 64 of the British Open on Tuesday evening before opening up on his bigger battle away from the green baize.
The 35-year-old Leicester professional – who meets Jak Jones in the third round – was diagnosed with the illness 18 months ago which causes bouts of dizziness and a crash in energy levels.
“It has got better recently so I am trying to be positive," Woollaston told reporters. "On the good days I feel 60 or 70% of my usual self, but then I have days where I just completely crash.
“I can only practise for one or two hours a day and it’s hard to look after my kids when I’m at home.
"(My wife) Tatiana has been a massive support, but it has been hard for her as well. Some people never recover from this kind of illness, but I am hopeful because in the last few months I have been better.
“I am doing my best in matches and I have managed to win a few this season. I have no expectations. Tonight’s win was one of my best in recent seasons and the short matches suit me better.”
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