Mark Williams, the world number seven snooker player, is expected to face a fine after missing the opening event of the 2026 snooker season. The Welshman withdrew at short notice from the Championship League held in Leicester last month. His place was taken by amateur player Jeff Cundy.

Williams, 51, traveled to Thailand instead to support his teenage son, Kian, who was competing in a Muay Thai martial arts tournament. Kian advanced to the semi-finals in the event, ultimately securing a bronze medal. Williams’s wife, Jo, addressed the absence on social media, confirming that he had intentionally pulled out of the snooker competition to attend the martial arts event and acknowledged that he might be fined for the decision.

“Had lots of ‘where’s Mark?’ questions. Yes, he was in Thailand. Yes, he pulled out of snooker. Yes, he’ll probably get fined. Being there with Kian was more important,” Jo Williams wrote on Instagram, also sharing a photo of Kian in a Welsh team kit with his medal.

The Championship League traditionally serves as the first tournament of the professional snooker season and is closely followed by players and fans. Williams’s absence from the event, especially on short notice, is unusual for a player of his ranking and stature in the sport. The decision reflects a personal commitment to family despite professional obligations.

Tournament organizers have not yet publicly commented on any disciplinary action or fines related to Williams’s withdrawal. However, regulations typically impose penalties for players who miss scheduled events without prior approval. Williams’s case highlights the occasional conflicts athletes face in balancing professional duties with family priorities.