Ex-snooker world champion breaks silence on four-month absence to reveal health problems

Former world snooker champion has revealed his snooker hiatus is due to health problems. The 30-year-old has not competed since April and has pulled out of a number of tournaments with little clarity as to why until now.

Brecel delayed his return to action by at least a further five weeks when he pulled out of the Saudi Arabia Masters. The star was due to face Englishman Sanderson Lam in the third round of competition but his opponent was handed a bye after Brecel cited medical reasons in his decision to withdraw from the tournament.

The world no.39 has not been in action since being knocked out of the World Championship at the Crucible in April. Brecel reached the quarter-finals in Sheffiled but fell 13-8 to Judd Trump.

Since, the Belgian Bullet has been absent for the first four events of the 2025/26 snooker caleendar. Brecel has missed the season-opening Championship League, and pulled out of qualifiers for both the Wuhan and British Open.

It is said Brecel will not be punished for skipping the Saudi ranking tournament. And his health issues would appear to provide ample reason for his absences.

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Brecel revealed it has proven a frustrating period of his career as he attempted to enlighten his fans. In an Instagram story, he said: "Hi everyone, some of you might have been wondering why I am not participating in snooker events since April.

"The truth is that I am suffering with health problems. "Me and my team are doing everything we can to come out of this stronger and better than before.

"It's been really frustrating to not be able to travel and compete in tournaments! But... I always choose to be optimistic! Tough times often lead to something great!"

Brecel will now be out of action until at least September. Next month could bring the opportunity to play in the Xi'an Grand Prix and Northern Ireland Open qualifiers in Leicester.

That will be contingent on Brecel being well enough to challenge in the tournaments however. The 2023 Crucilbe champion has now been out of action for more than three months.

That time appears to have seen him enjoy the summer months in his homeland. The Belgian has spent time in the Maasmechelen region during his hiatus from snooker.

Brecel has taken the opportunity to enjoy life with his girlfriend. Per his Instagram account, the duo have embraced the chance to enjoy each other's company by riding bikes, eating food and drinking Stella, wine and cocktails.