Ben Woollaston reveals battle with chronic fatigue syndrome
Woollaston revealed his ongoing battle with illness (PA Images / Alamy Stock Photo)
Ben Woollaston has revealed he was recently diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome after progressing to the British Open third round.
The former Welsh Open finalist has been battling illness for the past 18 months, having experienced symptoms including dizziness and low energy.
Woollaston subsequently endured a difficult 2021-22 season, in which runs to the last 16 of the UK Championship and Gibraltar Open represented his best performances.
But the world number 44 has enjoyed a timely return to form at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes, enjoying an impressive 4-1 victory over reigning champion Mark Williams on Tuesday.
Speaking to WST after that win, Woollaston lifted the lid on his ongoing battle. “It has got better recently, so I am trying to be positive,” he said.
“On the good days, I feel 60 or 70 per cent of my usual self, but then I have days where I just completely crash.
“I can only practise for one or two hours a day and it’s hard to look after my kids when I’m at home. [My wife] Tatiana has been a massive support, but it has been hard for her as well.
“Some people never recover from this kind of illness, but I am hopeful because in the last few months I have been better.
“I am doing my best in matches, and I have managed to win a few this season. I have no expectations. Tonight’s win was one of my best in recent seasons, and the short matches suit me better.”
The Leicester cueist aims to build on his momentum when he plays Jak Jones in round three on Wednesday.
