After serving a lengthy ban, former world champion snooker player **Ding Junhui** is making an eagerly awaited return to the sport, with many pundits and fans tipping him for a potential World Championship victory. Ding, once regarded as one of snooker’s most talented and consistent players, has endured a turbulent period away from the sport, following disciplinary issues that saw him sidelined for over a year. But now, the 37-year-old is back, and expectations surrounding his comeback are higher than ever.
Ding, who became the first Asian player to win a Triple Crown event, has been a fixture at the top of the game for almost two decades. His skill, particularly in break-building, has earned him admiration worldwide, and his calm demeanor under pressure has made him a favorite in major tournaments. Despite the disruption caused by his suspension, many in the snooker world believe Ding’s return could signal the resurgence of one of the sport’s most iconic figures.
Experts have noted that Ding’s break from the game may actually benefit him in the long run. With fresh motivation and a more focused mindset, he could prove to be a formidable contender at the 2024 World Snooker Championship. While there is no denying the strength of current top players like Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump, Ding’s return has been widely discussed as a possible game-changer in the race for the coveted title at the Crucible Theatre.
While his form in competitive matches post-suspension remains to be fully tested, Ding has been putting in solid performances in qualifying rounds, showing glimpses of his old brilliance. If he can recapture his peak form, snooker fans could be in for a thrilling contest at this year’s World Championship, with Ding Junhui a genuine contender for snooker’s biggest prize once again.
