Stephen Hendry and Ken Doherty granted extended World Snooker Tour Cards

Former World Champions Stephen Hendry and Ken Doherty have been offered additional two-year invitational tour cards to remain on the professional circuit.

Seven-time Crucible king Hendry made a shock return to the main tour in 2020 after initially retiring from professional competition a decade ago.

The 53-year-old has entered only a handful of events since his return and has failed to progress beyond the Second Round stage of any ranking tournament, picking up £11,000 in prize money.

Hendry opted not to enter this year’s World Championship qualifiers, having last featured in the European Masters qualifiers last October.

His only televised victory of the season came the British Open last August when he defeated Chris Wakelin 3-2.

However, the decorated Scot has been offered an extended wildcard to remain on the tour for the next two seasons, alongside 1997 World Champion Doherty.

Doherty has accepted the invite for a third time, having finished the season world ranked 78.

WST chairman Steve Dawson said: “We have decided to offer Ken Doherty and Stephen Hendry invitational tour cards for the next two seasons.”

“They are both great ambassadors for our sport and they have both done a huge amount to grow snooker around the world over many years.

“Both Ken and Stephen continue to generate interest from fans, television and media.

“We wish them all the best for the next two seasons. We will review this invitation at the end of the two-year period.”

Six-time world finalist Jimmy White still has a further season remaining on the two-year wildcard he was granted in 2021.

Reigning World Women’s Champion Nutcharut Wongharuthai and English Women’s Champion Rebecca Kenna will also join the circuit for the first time next season.

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