The Woollastons: Snooker's Dynasty

SHEFFIELD — In the high-pressure world of professional snooker, few stories capture the imagination quite like that of Ben and Tatiana Woollaston. The husband-and-wife duo have become a unique fixture at the World Snooker Championship, where their shared passion for the sport has made them fan favorites—though they never compete against each other.

Ben, a seasoned professional ranked inside the world’s top 32, and Tatiana, a rising star on the World Women’s Snooker Tour, are often seen supporting each other from the sidelines. Their dynamic is rare in snooker, where family ties are uncommon at the elite level. "We push each other to be better, but we’re also each other’s biggest fans," Ben told World Snooker in a recent interview.

A Shared Journey to the Crucible

Ben Woollaston turned professional in 2008 and has since become a consistent presence on the tour, reaching a career-high ranking of 21 in 2015. Tatiana, originally from Russia, took up snooker after meeting Ben and quickly rose through the ranks, winning multiple women’s titles. Their partnership extends beyond marriage—they often practice together, refining each other’s techniques.

Their careers, however, follow separate paths due to snooker’s gender divide. While Ben competes in mixed-gender ranking events, Tatiana primarily plays in women’s tournaments. "It’s a shame we can’t face each other in a professional match," Tatiana joked. "But we make up for it in practice!"

Balancing Family and Competition

The couple’s dedication to snooker is matched only by their commitment to family. They have two young children, making their careers a delicate balancing act. "It’s tough being away from the kids, but we make it work," Ben admitted. "Tatiana’s support is everything—she understands the sacrifices."

Their routine includes:

• Early-morning practice sessions before the kids wake up
• Alternating tournament schedules to ensure one parent is always home
• Family trips to events when possible

Breaking Barriers in Women’s Snooker

Tatiana has become a trailblazer for women in the sport, advocating for greater recognition and opportunities. In 2023, she reached the final of the Women’s World Championship, narrowly losing to Reanne Evans. "The women’s game is growing, but we need more exposure," she said. "I hope one day, a woman will compete at the Crucible in the main event."

Ben has been vocal in supporting gender equality in snooker, calling for more mixed events. "Tatiana’s talent proves women can compete at the highest level," he said. "The sport should reflect that."

Looking Ahead

As the 2024 World Championship approaches, Ben is focused on securing his spot at the Crucible, while Tatiana prepares for the Women’s World Championship. Their dream? To one day see Tatiana qualify for the main tour. "That would be the ultimate achievement," Ben said. "But no matter what, we’ll keep enjoying this journey together."

Their story is a testament to snooker’s unique ability to bring people together—both on and off the table. As Tatiana put it: "We’re not just a couple who play snooker. Snooker is part of our love story."