Luca Brecel faces a possible sanction after quitting his first match of the new season after only two frames. Earlier this week, the former world champion went up against Sunny Akani in a qualifier for the Xi’an Grand Prix, which carries a total prize fund of £850,000. Brecel had previously withdrawn from contests in the Championship League, Saudi Arabia Masters and Wuhan Open.
He decided to concede the match while trailing by 40 points in frame three, having already lost the previous two. After a brief conversation with his bemused opponent, the Belgian shook the referee’s hand and walked away. Akani had been eyeing a blue to the middle when Brecel rose from his seat and was left visibly shocked by the withdrawal.
Now, it has emerged that Brecel could be punished for his bizarre actions. Snooker chiefs are not impressed with his behaviour and the incident is being reviewed, according to The Sun.
It is said that Brecel could be presented with a hefty fine, unless he can provide a mitigating reason for walking out of the contest.
Taking to Instagram after the match, the 30-year-old explained that he was using a borrowed cue which he struggled to get to grips with.
“I started the match with a fighting mentality, but soon realised that there was no feeling in that piece of wood at all,” wrote Brecel.
“The feeling in my arm has been incredibly good the last few weeks. Nothing can be done about it at all, but we keep on going.”
Before his match against Akani, Brecel had not competed since April and had previously offered little explanation as to why. He went on to reveal that his multiple withdrawals were prompted by health concerns.
Last month, he said on social media: “Hi everyone, some of you might have been wondering why I am not participating in snooker events since April. The truth is that I am suffering with health problems.
“Me and my team are doing everything we can to come out of this stronger and better than before. It’s been really frustrating to not be able to travel and compete in tournaments! But I always choose to be optimistic! Tough times often lead to something great.”
Brecel will now be hoping to shake off his recent issues and find some form as the snooker season ramps up. He recently slipped to 41st in the world rankings, partly as a result of his inactivity.
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