Mark Williams, a name synonymous with snooker brilliance, harbors a secret far removed from the green baize. At 50 years old, and currently ranked fourth in the world, this three-time world champion is achieving remarkable feats, defying age and continuing to dominate the sport.
His recent victory at the Xi’an Grand Prix, defeating Shaun Murphy in October, cemented his status as the oldest ever winner of a ranking event. He even reached the World Championship final last year, proving his enduring skill and competitive spirit. Yet, away from the pressures of the game, Williams contends with a truly unusual phobia.
The Welshman, affectionately known as the ‘Welsh Potting Machine,’ finds himself far more at ease navigating the intricacies of a snooker table than the simple comforts of a kitchen. His aversion isn’t to spiders, heights, or enclosed spaces – it’s to teabags.
The revelation came during a live broadcast of the Welsh Open, when BBC presenter Catrin Heledd playfully exposed his fear to the world. Williams, visibly embarrassed, admitted he was now “in trouble” for having his peculiar phobia made public.
Stephen Hendry, a long-time rival and friend, confirmed the seriousness of Williams’s fear. While Williams is known for his quick wit and playful demeanor, Hendry insists this is one area where the Welshman is entirely genuine.
Hendry even confessed to playfully threatening Williams during their golf outings, hinting at strategically placing teabags near the green just as Williams prepares to putt. The response? A stern warning: “Be prepared, because I will punch you.”
It’s a fear that’s both baffling and intensely real for Williams. He doesn’t consume tea or coffee, leaving the origin of this phobia shrouded in mystery. Hendry describes it as “the strangest thing ever,” emphasizing Williams’s unwavering seriousness about the subject.
Despite the playful threats, Hendry admits he’s determined to test Williams’s resolve, motivated by a long list of playful pranks Williams has inflicted upon him over the years. He intends to carry out his plan, believing it’s time to return the favor.
Following a last-16 exit at the Welsh Open, Williams now has a brief respite before returning to competition. His next challenge awaits at the World Open in Yushan on March 17th, followed by the Tour Championship in Manchester – a crucial stepping stone on the path to the World Championship.
With his 28th appearance at the Crucible looming in 2026, Williams continues to add to his legendary career, all while quietly guarding against the unexpected menace of a simple teabag.
