In what can only be described as a stunning and unexpected turn of events, two of snooker’s most respected figures — Stephen Hendry and Ken Doherty — have found themselves embroiled in a heated and very public feud. The disagreement, which initially seemed minor, has rapidly escalated into a full-blown clash that threatens not only their long-standing friendship but also their professional relationship as pundits and ambassadors of the sport.
According to multiple sources close to the snooker world, the fallout between the two legends is rooted in clashing views over the modern game, player attitudes, and the direction snooker is taking in terms of both style and governance.
A History of Respect and Rivalry
To understand the magnitude of this row, one must first appreciate the history between these two players.
Stephen Hendry, a seven-time world champion, is widely regarded as one of the greatest snooker players in history. He dominated the sport in the 1990s with an aggressive, clinical style that redefined how the game was played. After retiring in 2012 (before a brief comeback), Hendry transitioned into punditry, where his outspoken and sometimes controversial takes kept him in the public eye.
Ken Doherty, meanwhile, is a former world champion himself, famously defeating Hendry in the 1997 World Championship final. Known for his tactical acumen, sportsmanship, and affable nature, Doherty has long been considered a voice of reason and balance in the game. Like Hendry, he’s remained closely connected to snooker through commentary, coaching, and promotional work.
Despite their rivalry on the table, the two had maintained a professional rapport off it—until now.
What Sparked the Fallout?
The trouble began during the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield, where both were working as commentators and analysts for different broadcasters. During a post-match discussion about a controversial frame between two rising stars, Hendry reportedly criticized the players for being “too cautious” and “robotic,” arguing that modern players lacked the fearless aggression that defined his era.
“They all play the same now,” Hendry reportedly said. “Nobody wants to take a risk. It’s like they’re trained to avoid losing instead of trying to win.”
Doherty immediately disagreed on-air, defending the players and the evolving nature of the sport.
“That’s not fair, Stephen. The game has changed, yes, but players today are under enormous pressure. Their safety play and tactical battles are incredibly advanced — it’s not about playing recklessly. It’s about precision and control.”
What might have remained a simple difference of opinion soon exploded into something much larger behind the scenes.
Behind Closed Doors: The Disagreement Intensifies
Several sources report that, during a production meeting the following day, Hendry confronted Doherty about “undermining” him on live television. Tempers reportedly flared, with Hendry accusing Doherty of being “out of touch with the top level” of the modern game, suggesting that his perspective was “too forgiving” and “not demanding enough of excellence.”
Doherty, known for his calm demeanor, is said to have been visibly irritated, accusing Hendry of being dismissive, disrespectful, and too obsessed with his own legacy.
“Just because you played a certain way in the ‘90s doesn’t mean everyone else should follow that blueprint,” Doherty allegedly responded. “The game’s evolved, and not everything needs to be about you.”
Those present in the room described the atmosphere as “tense” and “surprisingly personal.” What was initially a disagreement over playing styles morphed into a clash of egos, philosophies, and possibly even unresolved resentment dating back to their playing days.
Impact on the Snooker Community
The row has had immediate ripple effects throughout the snooker community. Fans have taken to social media, with some taking sides and others expressing sadness that two of the sport’s most cherished voices are now in conflict.
A well-known snooker blogger tweeted:
“Hendry vs. Doherty: the commentary team is splitting like it’s the Beatles. Sad to see personal tension overshadow the love for the game.”
Players, too, have weighed in, with some younger professionals siding with Doherty, appreciating his support for the pressures they face in today’s competitive scene. One top-16 player, who requested anonymity, commented:
“Ken understands what we go through. He’s always encouraging. Hendry? He’s a legend, but he expects everyone to play like he did 30 years ago.”
Others, especially former players and purists, found themselves agreeing with Hendry’s more cutthroat approach, feeling that the modern game can sometimes lack the drama and risk-taking that defined earlier eras.
Snooker’s Identity Crisis?
At the core of the Hendry–Doherty rift is a deeper conversation about what snooker is becoming. The game has changed dramatically in the last two decades — with advances in coaching, equipment, sports science, and even mental health awareness. The modern player is more refined, analytical, and disciplined.
Hendry’s criticism may reflect a nostalgic frustration at a game that no longer mirrors the one he once dominated. For him, the flair, danger, and instinct that once thrilled fans has been replaced by cautious, percentage-based play.
Doherty, on the other hand, embraces the change. He sees the evolution of strategy, fitness, and consistency as signs of a healthier, more sustainable professional environment, even if it means less showboating.
This divide isn’t just about them — it’s about snooker’s past and future colliding.
Could the Rift Be Repaired?
For now, there’s no official word from either Hendry or Doherty. Both have declined media requests to comment directly on the incident, though insiders suggest that producers of several snooker broadcasts are attempting to mediate privately between the two, fearing long-term professional damage.
One senior figure in World Snooker Tour commented off the record:
“They’ve been fantastic ambassadors for the game. We all hope they can find common ground, because snooker needs both perspectives — tradition and innovation.”
Some fans, however, wonder whether the damage is already done. If the reports are true, this isn’t just a spat over commentary. This is about fundamental disagreements over identity, respect, and legacy.
Looking Ahead
Snooker finds itself at a crossroads — both on the table and off. The Hendry–Doherty fallout may be the most high-profile reflection yet of an ongoing shift in the sport’s culture.
Will the game continue to move toward precision and control, championing strategic excellence? Or will there be a push — as Hendry desires — to bring back the daring, risk-taking style of the past?
Regardless of who you agree with, one thing is clear: snooker is evolving, and not everyone agrees on the direction.
As fans wait to see if these two titans of the sport can reconcile, one is left with a bittersweet reminder that even in a sport of calm focus and silent halls, emotions can still run high — especially when legacy is on the line.
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