Match-Fixing Scandal: Snooker Star Mark King Banned

Former Northern Ireland Open champion Mark King has been banned from snooker for five years for match-fixing. An independent panel found him guilty of altering match outcomes and sharing insider information. King must also pay over 68,000 pounds in costs. He can appeal the decision until November 28.

In a significant blow to the world of snooker, former Northern Ireland Open champion Mark King has faced a five-year ban for match-fixing offenses. This decision was confirmed by the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) following an independent disciplinary panel's findings.

The panel found the 50-year-old English player guilty of manipulating match outcomes and distributing inside information related to betting. As a consequence, King has been ordered to pay 68,299 pounds in expenses. He was initially suspended in March last year after suspicious betting activities were linked to his match against Joe Perry at the Welsh Open in February 2023.

Despite denying all charges, King has the opportunity to appeal this ruling until November 28. Meanwhile, WPBSA chairman Jason Ferguson emphasized the organization's commitment to maintaining the sport's integrity above all else. Perry and fellow player John Higgins have not been implicated in any wrongdoing.

(With inputs from agencies.)