Graeme Dott, the former world snooker champion, has been charged with sexually abusing a boy and a girl. The 47-year-old, who won the 2006 World Snooker Championship, faces serious allegations related to incidents that occurred over a span of several years. Court documents reveal that he is accused of abusing a girl in Glasgow between 1993 and 1996. In addition, he is alleged to have abused a boy between 2006 and 2010.
The charges against Dott have led to his suspension by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA). The governing body of snooker announced the suspension following the legal developments, citing the need for due process while the case is ongoing. A brief statement from the WPBSA clarified that it would be inappropriate to comment further on the matter until the court proceedings are concluded.
Dott, who has been a well-known figure in the snooker world, gained fame in 2006 when he triumphed over Peter Ebdon in a thrilling final to claim his first and only World Snooker Championship title. He also enjoyed success in other major tournaments, including reaching the final of the World Championship in 2004, where he was defeated by Ronnie O’Sullivan, and in 2010, when he lost to Australian Neil Robertson. Throughout his career, Dott built a reputation as a resilient and tactical player, known for his strong mental game and ability to perform under pressure.
Having turned professional in 1994, Dott was a consistent presence on the World Snooker Tour, competing regularly in the sport’s biggest events. However, in recent years, his form has declined, and he has dropped out of the world’s top 50 rankings. Despite this, he was still competing in the current season, with plans to enter the World Snooker Championship qualifiers. He was scheduled to appear in the second round of qualifiers this week, but his suspension has cast doubt on his ability to take part. Dott retains the right to appeal his suspension, but given the timing of the legal proceedings, it seems unlikely that he will be able to compete in the event as planned.
The allegations against Dott have sent shockwaves through the snooker community, as he was widely respected both for his achievements on the table and his contribution to the sport. As the case proceeds, the WPBSA has maintained that it is necessary to allow the legal process to unfold without interference. The case is scheduled to go to trial in June at the high court in Glasgow, where the charges will be examined in more detail.
The outcome of the case could have significant implications for Dott’s future in snooker. Should he be convicted, it would undoubtedly bring an abrupt end to his career and raise difficult questions about his legacy within the sport. In the meantime, snooker fans and the wider sporting community will be watching closely as the legal proceedings progress, eager for clarity on both the personal and professional consequences for the former world champion.
As of now, Dott’s suspension remains in place, and the sport waits for the resolution of the case before any further actions are taken. Until then, the snooker world is left grappling with the gravity of the charges and the potential fallout from this highly disturbing situation.
