Mark Allen reveals mixed emotions on Champions of Champions snooker title glory – ‘It wasn’t a lot of fun’

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.

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.

Allen flew back to Belfast on Tuesday morning to prepare for the semi-finals.

“May the best man and I’ll see who is left on Saturday,” said Allen.

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.