Mark Allen reveals big change to ‘shots and vodka’ routine as snooker star hunts World Championship glory
MARK ALLEN revealed the big change to his “shots and vodka” routine as he eyes World Snooker Championship glory.
The Northern Irishman, 38, has helped turn his life and career around in recent years thanks to a major health kick sparked by a bitter divorce and going bankrupt.
He lost a whopping six-and-a-half stone in weight and has risen up to No3 in the world rankings.
Now the Pistol hopes to improve on his semi-final appearances at the Crucible in 2009 and 2023.
But he confessed he does still enjoy the odd wild night out – although with a better balance these days.
Allen said: “Just because you’re going out partying doesn’t mean you’re not dedicated and applying yourself to the sport.
“I think in the past I probably didn’t get the balance quite right, and it’s about doing things at the right times because you’ve got to have a life away from snooker.
“I still enjoy a night out with my friends. I probably don’t do it as often as I did, but when I do, I make up for it.
“I enjoy having a few shots and going on the vodka, but I never do it too close to a tournament now, and that’s the difference.”
Allen’s change in diet and lifestyle was triggered by a humbling defeat to Ronnie O’Sullivan at the World Champs two years ago.
The dramatic body transformation led to an incredible photo of Allen AND his daughter Harleigh both fitting into one of his old waistcoats.
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Allen has two-thirds of the Triple Crown but it was his win at the 2018 Scottish Open that was particularly impressive given his alcohol-fuelled exploits that week – including three ciders in 15 minutes during a comeback win.
Speaking at SunSport’s exclusive snooker event ahead of the 2024 World Championship, he said: “I started drinking again in the car. And I carried on drinking throughout the week. I was out each night.
'Smoking too much weed and bulk-buying too much Smirnoff' - Inside Ronnie O'Sullivan's yo-yo health battle
RONNIE O’SULLIVAN’S snooker career almost went up in smoke after buying “too much weed and Smirnoff.”
Ronnie has long linked his performances on the baize with the ups and down in his diet and exercise regime.
The Rocket he has suffered a lifetime of yo-yoing weight, addiction and mental health struggles, and an often unhealthy relationship with food and fitness.
O’Sullivan ballooned to 16st on vodka and takeaways as a troubled teen, while “puffing like a maniac”.
Then, after turning his life around, he even saw his form decline after doing to TOO MUCH exercise.
Now right back to his best, the seven-time world champion has opened up on his struggles.
Click here to read more about Ronnie’s incredible life…
“Only until I got to the semi-finals did I realise: I could win this! I started to be sensible but played awful in the semis.
“I fell 4-0 down to Daniel Wells. I couldn’t get any vodka in the players’ lounge.
“I needed to a drink, just to see if I could turn this around.
“I had three Magners ciders – which I don’t ever drink – in the 15-minute interval. And I won 6-5! Then I beat Shaun Murphy 9-7 in the final. Any kids out there – don’t do that!”