Mark Allen reveals mixed emotions on Champions of Champions snooker title glory – 'It wasn't a lot of fun'
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ByEurosport
Updated 14/11/2023 at 17:15 GMT
Mark Allen claimed the 2020 Champion of Champions title with a 10-6 win over Neil Robertson in Milton Keynes, but the Northern Irishman admits he does not look back on lifting the trophy with any great fondness. The UK and World Grand Prix winner eased into the semi-finals of this year's tournament with a 6-2 quarter-final victory against German Masters champion Ali Carter on Monday evening.
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Mark Allen lifted the Champions of Champions title in 2020, but the Northern Irishman continues to have mixed emotions when he recalls the title win.
Speaking after booking his spot in the semi-finals of this year's event after following up a 4-1 win over Jimmy White with a 6-2 a success against Ali Carter in Group 4 on Monday, the UK champion reflected on his triumph three years ago in Milton Keynes.
Allen enjoyed victories against Scott Donaldson (4-3), Ronnie O'Sullivan (6-3), Judd Trump (6-1) and then Neil Robertson (10-6) in the final to claim the trophy and £150,000 first prize.
The tournament was played behind closed doors at the Marshall Arena due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Allen admits crowds are vital for professional players to perform properly.
"That's what we play for," said Allen, who produced three century breaks in easing past White and Carter.
"It's great to win tournaments and World Snooker did a great job during Covid to keep us playing, but it wasn't a lot of fun.
"You are playing behind closed doors, getting food delivered twice a day in brown bags and people are running away.
"It's nice to be back to a bit of normality, and performing in front of fans on the biggest stages in the biggest events is why we play.
"And I'm no different."
Allen was in line to face world No. 1 O'Sullivan in the semi-finals of the elite 16-player event before the world No. 1 withdrew from the tournament.
"Mentally I feel a bit drained and stressed and I want to look after my mental health and my body. I’m sorry to all the fans but I’ll be back," said O'Sullivan on X.
Allen flew back to Belfast on Tuesday morning to prepare for the semi-finals.
"May the best man win and I'll see who is left on Saturday," said Allen, who could meet Ding Junhui, John Higgins, Zhang Anda or Chris Wakelin in the last four.
Tuesday's action features world champion Luca Brecel face Barry Hawkins in Group 2 and Mark Williams take on Robert Milkins, with the winners meeting in the evening.
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