Cancer scare shocks Dott

World champion Graeme Dott has revealed the secret heartache behind his decision to possibly take time away from the sport.

Dott hinted he might leave the snooker scene for personal reasons after slipping to a 6-2 second-round defeat to Trowbridge’s Stephen Lee at the SAGA Insurance Masters at Wembley Arena yesterday.

It has subsequently transpired that last year’s Crucible winner even considered pulling out the tournament before his match, having received a distressing phone call from his wife Elaine.

The couple are expecting a child, but when Elaine went for a a routine scan she was told she may have a cyst, or possibly even cancer.

Dott stayed to play the match because he felt he did not want to let down his loyal supporters, and at the same time wanted to put a brave face on as world champion.

But it was clear the popular Scot was never at the races – and that his thoughts were understandably focused on his wife.

A statement issued by Dott’s manager Pat Mooney read:

“Graeme’s wife Elaine went to hospital for a very early pregnancy check.

“Due to the early stages of the pregnancy, Graeme and Elaine had not as yet informed family and friends. The scan at the hospital has revealed a possible cyst or cancer.

“The test results will be known within the next couple of days. In the mean time, Graeme wishes to thank all of those who have given their support or best wishes and requests that he and his family are allowed to keep this as a family matter rather than a public matter.”

Just before Christmas Dott and Elaine, who have one son, suffered heartache when Alex Lambie – Elaine’s father and Graeme’s former manager- passed away after a long battle with cancer.

In April 2002 both Elaine and Graeme experienced heartache when Alex’s wife, May Lambie, also died of the disease.

Dott is due to play in the Malta Cup at the end of the month, but whether he will or not obviously now depends on Elaine’s health.