Iranian snooker player’s conundrum as conflict rages back home

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Iranian snooker player Hossein Vafaei has revealed his dilemma and he gets set to play against Mark Selby in the upcoming UK Championship, amid violent protests in Iran. With the death of hundreds of anti-government protesters, alongwith the detention of many more, Vafaei has been urged to not participate as a show of solidarity.

According to the snooker star, it has been a tough period for him, and the news of the events unfolding in Iran often leave him in tears and makes him worry for family and friends. He has also expressed the helplessness he feels on being unable to do anything for his “brothers” and “sisters”, and ardently hopes that peace is returned to the people as swiftly as possible. Vafaei has described how playing has felt conflicting to him too, with victories devoid of happiness or celebration, and associates urging him to stop playing as a sign of support. However, he intends to continue while supporting his fellow countrymen in spirit.

The 28-year-old Vafaei is gearing up to face Selby, after successfully beating Asjad Iqbal and Robbie Williams last week with the identical score of 6-4. He has had a successful season with 147 points and a century but says happiness has eluded him as snooker is a mental game, and the ongoing civil rights situation in Iran has introduced a lot of negativity.