Injury Blow for Barry Hawkins: Snooker Star Withdraws from World Open to Save World Title Charge
Barry Hawkins has revealed he is still managing a painful back injury as he prepares for two of the most important tournaments of the snooker season. The world No. 9 has withdrawn from the World Open in Yushan in order to focus on recovery ahead of the Tour Championship in Manchester and the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield.
The 45-year-old Englishman recently showed remarkable determination by battling through the injury to win the Welsh Open in Llandudno. In the final he defeated Jack Lisowski 9–5 to claim the fifth ranking title of his career. However, Hawkins admitted the pain in his lower back was so severe during the event that he nearly withdrew before the tournament even began.
Despite the discomfort, the player known as “The Hawk” pushed through the pain barrier and produced a series of strong performances on his way to the trophy. But after returning to practice, Hawkins realized that continuing to compete without rest could jeopardize his chances in the sport’s biggest events later this season.
The former world finalist had been scheduled to face Ian Burns in the last 64 of the World Open. Instead, he decided to withdraw on medical grounds rather than risk worsening the injury with the long trip to China.
Hawkins admitted it was not an easy call. He said he dislikes pulling out of tournaments, but the persistent pain—even while practicing—made the decision necessary. His main priority now is to rest and recover so he can compete at full strength in Manchester and Sheffield.
Encouragement from fellow professionals Mark Selby and Neil Robertson had previously convinced Hawkins to continue playing at the Welsh Open. Now, with the season’s biggest prizes approaching, the experienced Englishman hopes a short break will give him the best possible chance of chasing a long-awaited first world title.
