Luca Brecel became the first player from mainland Europe to win the World Snooker Championship.
The Belgian won the 2023 final at the Crucible Theatre, beating Mark Selby 18–15. Brecel’s victory was a landmark for snooker because previous world champions had come from the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and Ireland, among other places, but none had represented mainland Europe.
Brecel recovered from a 10–5 deficit during the final, producing a remarkable comeback against four-time champion Selby. His attacking play and fearless long potting were defining features of the match.
The achievement is distinct from being the first champion from outside the United Kingdom, a milestone achieved by Canada’s Cliff Thorburn in 1980. Brecel’s record specifically concerns mainland Europe.