Jimmy White suffers defeat to Martin O'Donnell in World Championship snooker qualifying – 'Disappointing end to season'

Jimmy White's hopes of a first appearance at the Crucible since 2006 were dashed by a disappointing 10-4 defeat to Martin O'Donnell in the second round of World Championship qualifying. Having reached the last 32 of the UK Championship and last 16 of the German Masters and WST Classic this season, the six-time world finalist had high hopes of continuing to turn back the clock by returning to the sport's biggest stage later this month. Ad «I’ll be getting to the Crucible, I am playing too well,» said White after losing 4-1 to Pang Junxu in the inaugural Classic event in Leicester last month.

World ChampionshipWorld Championship qualifying: Schedule and key info28/03/2023 AT 14:55 Despite entering the qualifiers buoyed by some vintage form, the 1984 Masters champion flattered to deceive as he joined fellow icon Stephen Hendry, who lost 10-4 to James Cahill in the first round on Wednesday, in failing to advance at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield. White will return to his punditry work with Eurosport as he prepares to chase a fourth world seniors title at the Crucible next month (May 3-7). “Firstly a massive thank you to everyone for their support over the last two days,” said White on Twitter.

“After all these years, your support is not taken for granted. Disappointing end to the season, but that’s the game we love. “Looking forward to seeing the Eurosport team and having a run at the World Seniors.” White was facing an uphill battle to remain alive in this year's tournament after falling 7-2 behind against fellow Englishman O'Donnell, who is due to return to the professional circuit next season.