A spectator disrupted the World Snooker Championship semi-final at the Crucible Theatre by shouting about the Epstein Files, leading to his immediate ejection.
Outburst in Deciding Frame
The incident unfolded during the tense 33rd frame between Wu Yize and Mark Allen in Sheffield on Saturday night. As Wu prepared his shot, the fan yelled, “Never forget the Epstein Files,” referencing documents linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The unidentified spectator, captured on camera standing up, repeated the outburst before referee Marcel Eckardt intervened.
“Can you get this person out please, now please,” Eckardt demanded. Crowd members urged the fan to be quiet, showing visible surprise at the shout. The disruption echoed clearly throughout the venue.
Match Outcome
Wu seized the moment after the interruption, clinching a thrilling 17-16 victory. Allen, leading 16-15, missed a straightforward black, paving the way for the decider.
Record-Breaking Stalemate from Previous Day
Chaos marked the semi-final earlier on Friday with the longest frame in World Championship history, lasting 100 minutes and 21 seconds. Eight red balls became unpottable due to the black’s position, prompting endless safety exchanges and restless fans.
Eckardt stepped in, awarding three shots each to break the deadlock. Allen, holding a lead, fouled by potting the black to force resolution. Wu rallied to win the frame, leveling the score at 7-7.
Reactions from Snooker Legends
Six-time world champion Steve Davis called the scenes “embarrassing.” Seven-time Crucible winner Stephen Hendry labeled it the “dark side of snooker.”
