Mark Allen to temporarily step away from snooker

Antrim's Mark Allen is to take a break from snooker to address personal issues.

It comes on the back of his World Championship defeat against Mark Selby.

The Englishman held a 9-6 lead going into their final session, before completing a comprehensive 13-7 victory to send Allen home in the 2nd round.

"Undoubtedly my worst season for some time and it ends in a whimper," said Allen, speaking after the loss at the Crucible.

"Time to step away from the game for a while and hopefully get some personal stuff sorted."

Allen hinted this break from the sport would see him miss a few tournaments, but said he will return at some stage.