Legal Proceedings Against Snooker Champion

Former World Snooker Champion Graeme Dott has been formally charged with historical child sex offenses relating to two alleged incidents in Scotland. The 47-year-old Larkhall native, who claimed the 2006 World Championship at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre, faces charges spanning periods between 1993-1996 and 2006-2010.

Career Freeze and Tournament Impact

The World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) confirmed Dott’s immediate suspension, forcing his withdrawal from this week’s World Championship qualifying matches. A WPBSA spokesperson stated: "This matter is now sub judice, and we will not compromise legal proceedings with premature commentary."

Timeline of a Troubled Champion

• 1992: Wins UK Under-19 Championship
• 1993: Claims Scottish Amateur title
• 1994: Turns professional
• 2006: Defeats Peter Ebdon 18-14 for World Championship
• 2007: China Open victory peaks at world No. 2 ranking
• 2025: Suspended pending high court trial

Industry Reaction and Historical Context

Dott’s case marks the first WPBSA suspension for non-sporting conduct since 2018 match-fixing scandals. Snooker historian David Smith notes: *"This casts a shadow over one of Scotland’s greatest cue sports achievements."**

Next Hearing: Glasgow High Court, June 11, 2025

Source: BBC Scotland, WPBSA official statements