Jack Lisowski has paid tribute to his late father after pulling out of the World Grand Prix.
Four days ago, Lisowski, 33, announced he would no longer compete in the Hong Kong competition, citing personal reasons. He shared the heartbreaking news in an emotional post on Instagram, where he included a collage of photos of himself and his father.
Lisowski wrote: “Last week, my Dad passed away, whilst walking up the hill on a sunny day. He was one of my best friends and my idol. The pain of losing him is hard to describe but I also feel so so lucky to have had him in my life for 33 years and spent so much time with him – especially the last few years. He showed me what unconditional love is and gave my sister, my mum and myself the best life imaginable.
“I took the first 3 photos with him last month and was going to put them up in a photo dump with other stuff eventually, but I guess this post is just for him now. Dad, there are no words I can use to do you justice. You were a f**** legend… until we meet again… Rest in peace.”
Lisowski will also not appear in the upcoming Players Championship and Tour Championship. The snooker star was scheduled to face his close friend and current World No.1, Judd Trump, in the second round. Had he competed, Lisowski would have needed to overcome Trump to qualify for the Players Championship and Tour Championship.
Lisowski’s heartfelt message to his dad has resonated throughout the snooker community, with figures like Trump, Barry Hawkins, and the World Snooker Tour extending their sympathies to Lisowski.
Trump commented: “The absolute nicest person you’d ever meet.. love you guys”, while Mark Allen wrote: “Never got to meet him but, if he’s anything like yourself he was an absolute gent and I’m sure he’s very proud of the young man you’ve become. Sending love to you and your family mate.”
Lisowski overcame Anda Zhang on Tuesday to book his now-cancelled meeting with Trump. A statement confirming his exit from the competition said: “Jack Lisowski has withdrawn from the ongoing World Grand Prix in Hong Kong for personal reasons.”
“Lisowski was due to face Judd Trump on Thursday afternoon, but Trump will now receive a bye. Neil Robertson v David Gilbert will now take place on table one.”
Despite the advantage, Trump’s journey in the tournament was cut short after he won his quarter-final match against Hossein Vafaei. He was ousted by Stuart Bingham with a 6-3 defeat in the semi-finals.
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