Snooker fans in Derby and beyond were treated to a week of high drama, nostalgia, and compelling personal stories as the British Seniors Open unfolded at the Vallient Live venue—the city’s first competitive snooker tournament since 1993. The event, which concluded on December 28, 2025, brought together eight snooker legends, each with their own storied career, for a shot at senior glory and, for some, a chance at redemption.
At the heart of the action was Jimmy White, the 63-year-old icon whose journey back to the competitive table has captivated fans for decades. White’s return to Derby was more than just a sporting comeback; it was a testament to resilience, determination, and personal growth. Having spent 46 years in the professional snooker circuit, White’s career is a tapestry of triumphs, struggles, and comebacks that have endeared him to generations of snooker enthusiasts.
White’s path to the Seniors Open final was anything but easy. Facing off against six-time major winner Ken Doherty in the quarter-finals, White demonstrated the kind of grit and flair that made him a household name. The tournament’s lineup was a veritable who’s who of snooker’s golden era, including former World Seniors champion Alfie Burden, Dominic Dale, Matthew Stevens, Anthony Hamilton, Joe Perry, and Stuart Bingham. Each match, broadcast live on Channel 5, was a reminder of the sport’s enduring appeal and the legends who shaped its history.
The final itself was a classic, pitting White against Joe Perry—a player who has long admired White and now found himself vying for his first title on the World Seniors Snooker Tour. The match was a rollercoaster, with both players trading frames and producing moments of vintage brilliance. Ultimately, it was Perry who prevailed, clinching a 7-5 victory and lifting the coveted trophy. The win earned Perry a £15,000 jackpot and, perhaps more importantly, the satisfaction of overcoming his sporting hero on one of the game’s grand stages.
For White, the defeat was bittersweet. While the title slipped through his fingers, his journey to the final was a victory in itself. In recent interviews, White has been remarkably candid about the personal battles that have shaped his life and career. He has spoken openly about his struggles with gambling, revealing, “I lost about £3 million to gambling, and it nearly ruined me.” His admission of cocaine addiction and the toll it took on his finances and well-being has resonated with fans who see in White not just a champion, but a survivor.
White’s resilience is further underscored by his battle with testicular cancer nearly 30 years ago. Diagnosed early, he underwent successful surgery, a turning point that allowed him not only to continue his career but also to become a father again. “It was a life-changing moment,” White reflected, acknowledging how the experience shaped his outlook on life and competition.
Another recent revelation in White’s life is his diagnosis with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). He credits proper medication with helping him manage his thoughts and improve his performance at the table. “Getting diagnosed with ADHD has completely changed my life,” White explained. “I used to lose focus under pressure, but now I feel in control.” This newfound clarity has been evident in his recent performances, and fans have noticed a renewed sense of purpose in his play.
White’s personal life has also taken a positive turn. Since 2018, he has been in a relationship with Jade Slusarczyk, a 39-year-old TV presenter and former Miss Blackpool. White often credits Jade’s support and her choice to abstain from alcohol as key factors in his ongoing sobriety and happiness. The couple’s 23-year age gap has drawn attention, but White is quick to express his gratitude: “Jade’s support means the world to me. She’s helped me find joy and stability again.”
As the British Seniors Open played out on Channel 5, fans were reminded of the enduring appeal of snooker’s legends. The tournament was more than just a contest for a trophy; it was a celebration of the sport’s rich history and the personal stories that make its players unforgettable. For Derby, hosting its first major snooker event in over 30 years, the week was a nostalgic return to the city’s sporting roots. The Vallient Live venue buzzed with excitement as fans, both old and new, cheered on their heroes and witnessed moments of magic that harkened back to the sport’s heyday.
In the midst of tournament action, another snooker legend, Jimmy White himself, made headlines off the table by urging Ronnie O’Sullivan not to miss the 2026 Masters tournament. O’Sullivan, who currently resides in Dubai and limits his visits to the UK for tax reasons, had recently suffered an unsuccessful run at the UK Championship in York—just days before his 50th birthday. “I hope he doesn’t miss this opportunity and participates,” White stated, emphasizing the importance of O’Sullivan’s presence at the prestigious Masters event. The plea resonated with fans, many of whom agree that O’Sullivan’s participation would inject extra intrigue and spectacle into the tournament.
White’s call to O’Sullivan is a reminder of the camaraderie and mutual respect that exists among snooker’s elite, even as they compete fiercely on the table. The Masters, widely regarded as one of the sport’s most prestigious events, has always been a stage for legends to showcase their skills and entertain fans worldwide. O’Sullivan’s potential absence, due to his residency in Dubai and tax optimization strategies, would be keenly felt by the snooker community.
As the dust settles on the British Seniors Open, fans are left with a sense of appreciation for the game’s enduring spirit and the players who embody its values. Joe Perry’s breakthrough victory is a testament to perseverance and the rewards of dedication, while Jimmy White’s journey—marked by personal growth, resilience, and a passion for the sport—continues to inspire.
Looking ahead, the snooker world eagerly anticipates the next chapter, with the 2026 Masters looming on the horizon and questions swirling about which legends will grace the table. For now, Derby’s return to the snooker spotlight and the unforgettable stories from the British Seniors Open serve as a powerful reminder: in this sport, the journey is every bit as thrilling as the destination.
