Jimmy White Faces Snooker Relegation After 20-Year Title Drought

Jimmy White’s Crucible Dream Ends Again as Future in Snooker Hangs in the Balance

Jimmy White’s hopes of returning to the World Snooker Championship at the Crucible have been dashed for another year, extending his absence to two decades. The latest setback could also jeopardize his professional career after he plummeted to 93rd in the rankings—his lowest-ever position.

The 62-year-old snooker legend suffered a 10-5 defeat against Ashley Carty in the second round of qualifying at Sheffield’s English Institute of Sport. This loss marks another chapter in White’s long struggle to reclaim his place at the sport’s most prestigious event, having last competed in the main draw in 2006.

With his latest ranking drop, White now faces relegation from the World Snooker Tour. Only the top 64 players in the two-year rankings automatically retain their tour cards, along with four additional players from the one-year list. White had previously regained his card in 2023 under this exemption but has endured a dismal 2024/25 season, with his best performance being a last-32 appearance at the Northern Ireland Open.

To continue his career, White may need to compete in Q School—a grueling qualification tournament—or rely on another invitation tour card, which he has received three times before due to his legendary status in the sport.

Despite the setbacks, White remains determined. He recently told Stephen Hendry that he plans to play for three more years in pursuit of a fairytale return to the Crucible.

*”For me to still be able to play and compete now is like a godsend,”* he said. *”I’m going to play for another three years, and if I don’t win a tournament, I’m going to stop. I’m 62. People think, ‘Why are you doing it? You’re nuts.’ But I love the pressure—that’s half the buzz.”*

White’s resilience and passion for the game continue to inspire, but with his professional status in doubt, the clock is ticking on his storied career.