LONDON — Suspended snooker player Mark King has called for lifetime bans for players found guilty of match-fixing, describing the practice as a "cancer" that threatens the integrity of the sport. King, who is currently serving a 12-month ban for breaching betting rules, made the comments in an exclusive interview with BBC Sport.
The 49-year-old, a professional since 1991 and winner of the 2016 Northern Ireland Open, was suspended in October 2023 after admitting to placing bets on matches involving other players. While he denies fixing any matches himself, King insists the punishment for those who do should be far more severe. "If you're caught fixing, you should be gone for life—no second chances," he said.
The Growing Scandal in Snooker
Match-fixing allegations have plagued snooker in recent years, with multiple high-profile cases leading to suspensions and bans. In 2023, ten Chinese players, including former UK Championship winner Liang Wenbo, were handed lengthy suspensions for match-fixing offenses. The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) has been under increasing pressure to take stronger action.
King argues that the current penalties—ranging from fines to temporary bans—are insufficient. "A six-month or even a five-year ban doesn't send the right message. If you fix a match, you're stealing from the fans, the sport, and your fellow players," he said.
Why Lifetime Bans Are Necessary
King’s stance is supported by some within the sport, including former world champion Shaun Murphy, who has previously called for lifetime bans for match-fixers. The key arguments in favor of such measures include:
- Deterrence: A zero-tolerance policy would discourage players from even considering match-fixing.
- Protecting Integrity: Snooker relies on trust; fans must believe matches are fair.
- Financial Impact: Match-fixing undermines sponsorship deals and broadcasting revenue.
King also pointed to other sports, such as cricket and tennis, where lifetime bans have been imposed for corruption. "If snooker wants to be taken seriously, it needs to show it won’t tolerate cheats," he added.
The Case of Stephen Lee
One of the most notorious cases in snooker history involved Stephen Lee, a former world No. 5, who was banned for 12 years in 2013 for match-fixing. While his ban was effectively a career-ender, King believes it should have been permanent. "Lee’s ban was long, but it wasn’t a lifetime ban. That sends the wrong signal," he said.
The WPBSA’s Response
The WPBSA has defended its disciplinary process, stating that each case is judged on its merits. In a statement to ESPN, a spokesperson said: "Our anti-corruption unit works tirelessly to investigate allegations, and sanctions are imposed based on evidence. We continually review our policies to ensure they remain effective."
However, critics argue that the WPBSA’s approach lacks consistency. While some players receive lengthy bans, others—particularly those who cooperate with investigations—face lighter penalties. King believes this inconsistency undermines the sport’s credibility. "If the rules aren’t the same for everyone, what’s the point?" he asked.
The Role of Betting Companies
Another factor complicating the issue is the relationship between snooker and betting sponsors. Many tournaments are sponsored by gambling firms, creating a potential conflict of interest. King acknowledged this but insisted that players must take responsibility. "Yes, betting companies are involved, but that doesn’t mean players have to cheat. It’s about personal integrity," he said.
Conclusion: A Call for Change
King’s suspension ends in October 2024, and he has vowed to return to the sport with a renewed focus on fair play. However, he hopes his time away will prompt a broader discussion about snooker’s future. "This isn’t just about me—it’s about cleaning up the sport for the next generation," he said.
With match-fixing scandals showing no signs of abating, the debate over lifetime bans is likely to intensify. For King, the solution is clear: "If you’re caught fixing, you should never play again. End of story."
