Mark Selby made it to the final of the World Snooker Championships but was ultimately defeated 18-15 by Luca Brecel. Beyond his composed demeanor on the snooker table, Selby finds unwavering support from his caring wife, Vikki, whenever he competes.
Who is Mark Selby?
Mark Anthony Selby, born on June 19, 1983, in Leicester, developed a passion for pool and snooker from a young age, starting his journey in these sports at the tender age of eight.
Tragically, he faced a challenging upbringing, being abandoned by his mother at the age of eight, and at 16, he lost his father to cancer.
Following his father’s passing, Mark found a supportive figure in family friend and snooker coach Alan Perkins. Under Perkins’ guidance, he dedicated himself to the world of snooker, a decision that would shape his successful career in the sport.
Two months after leaving school without qualifications, Mark Selby took a significant step in his career by joining the main professional snooker tour. His journey from that point on became the stuff of legend in the world of snooker.
Mark earned the moniker “The Jester from Leicester,” a nickname bestowed upon him by snooker compere Richard Beare.
In recognition of his contributions to snooker and his charitable efforts, Mark Selby was honored with the appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2022 Birthday Honours.
Who is Mark Selby’s wife Vikki Layton?
Selby’s wife Vikki Layton is a former Irish international pool player, who was born in Ipswich.
In 2010, the couple got engaged, and they sealed their commitment with a wedding ceremony in Mexico in May 2011.
After his Crucible victory in 2016, Mark Selby expressed deep gratitude and affection for his wife and his late father-in-law, Terry. He regarded Vikki’s family as his own, given his limited family connections. Selby acknowledged the emotional absence of Terry, who had watched him win two years prior but had since passed away. He believed that both his father and Terry would be proud of his achievements.
Belgian snooker player Luca Brecel, who defeated Selby in the World Championship final on May 1, 2023, spoke about Vikki’s health issues, offering his support to Mark and Vikki. Selby confirmed that Vikki had been unwell but was now on the road to recovery, appreciating Brecel’s kind words. Selby had informed Brecel of the situation, and he commended Brecel for mentioning it. Selby also shared that he had faced challenges with Vikki’s health since January, which affected his practice and mental well-being. However, he expressed hope that they were moving past these difficulties.
How many children do they have?
The couple have a daughter Sofia Maria who was born in 2014.
They have enjoyed victory pictures as a family with their daughter after tournament triumphs in the past.
What are Mark Selby’s snooker accomplishments?
Mark Selby has an impressive track record in his snooker career, including clinching the World Championship title four times in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2021.
His mastery extends to the Masters tournament, where he secured his first title in 2008, followed by another victory in 2010.
In 2013, Selby triumphed once more in the Masters.
His excellence in the UK Championship was evident with his initial win in 2012 and a remarkable second victory in 2016, where he bested Ronnie O’Sullivan in the final.
Selby boasts two victories in the China Open and has secured the title of German Masters champion three times.
Notably, he maintained the number-one ranking for over four years and achieved runner-up positions in various major tournaments, including the 2023 World Championship final, where he faced defeat against Belgian player Luca Brecel.
An extraordinary moment during this match was Selby’s accomplishment of the first maximum 147 break in a World Championship final.
What is Mark Selby’s net worth?
According to Idol Net Worth, Mark has a net worth of $12million (£96million).
As runner-up at the 2023 World Champs he took home prize money of £200,000.
Selby also received a share of the £40,000 prize for a maximum break at the tournament as well as sharing £15,000 for the highest break.