Who is Chris Wakelin?
Chris Wakelin is an English professional snooker player from Rugby, Warwickshire. Born on March 16, 1992, he turned professional in 2013 and has since become a notable figure in the sport. Wakelin’s journey to prominence is marked by resilience and determination, having overcome significant personal and professional challenges.
Early Life and Education
Chris Wakelin was born on March 16, 1992, in Rugby, Warwickshire, England. Raised in a family that shared a love for sports, he was introduced to snooker at a very young age. His early life was marked by a strong interest in various games, but it was snooker that captured his attention and became his passion. From the age of eight, Wakelin started playing snooker, encouraged by his parents, who noticed his natural talent for the game.
While he was still a child, Wakelin honed his skills by playing at local snooker clubs and taking part in junior competitions. His early exposure to the game was essential to developing his technical skills and understanding the mental aspects of snooker. Wakelin attended local schools in Rugby but did not pursue a formal academic career beyond secondary education, opting instead to focus on his snooker aspirations. His commitment to snooker eventually led him to bypass traditional higher education routes, choosing to dedicate his time and efforts entirely to the sport.
Despite his dedication to snooker, Chris remained grounded, showing that he valued both his education and the lessons learned from his family environment. He attended various snooker academies and training camps to develop his skills further, which laid the foundation for his eventual success as a professional player. His upbringing in Rugby, a town known for its sporting heritage, further helped shape his work ethic and determination.
Career
Chris Wakelin’s professional snooker career began in 2013 when he earned a spot on the World Snooker Tour. Initially, his journey was one of persistence, with several years of working hard to prove himself on the tour. Like many young snooker players, Chris faced challenges breaking into the elite ranks, but he persisted, training hard and competing in numerous qualifying rounds.
Wakelin’s breakthrough came in 2015 when he made his mark in the snooker world by reaching the third round of the World Championship, a prestigious tournament that solidified his place among the world’s top players. His rise continued steadily, but it wasn’t until 2023 that he truly made his presence felt. In February 2023, he secured his first major ranking title at the Snooker Shoot Out, a thrilling victory that boosted his profile significantly.
Wakelin’s victory at the 2023 Snooker Shoot Out is one of his career highlights. He defeated Julien Leclercq in a hard-fought final, showcasing his incredible skills. He made a break of 119 during the final, highlighting his technical proficiency. This victory marked his first ranking title and propelled him into the limelight, cementing his reputation as a rising star in snooker.
In addition to his 2023 success, Chris Wakelin has consistently delivered solid performances at various snooker tournaments. His career saw further advancement in 2024, when he reached the final of the International Championship in Nanjing, China, eventually losing to Ding Junhui. Nevertheless, this runner-up finish placed him within the top 16 of the world rankings for the first time, guaranteeing his qualification for major tournaments and ensuring his continued presence at the forefront of the sport.
Wakelin’s playing style is characterized by his calm demeanor, sharp shot-making, and steady temperament, which are key elements that have helped him overcome the pressures of top-tier competition. He continues to improve, working on all aspects of his game, including his mental focus, physical fitness, and technique. His consistent performance, along with his rising ranking, suggests that Wakelin is primed for even greater success in the years to come.
Despite his professional achievements, Wakelin remains down-to-earth and focused on his personal growth. His hard work and determination in the face of adversity reflect his resilience, while his recent successes offer hope that his best is yet to come.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Professional Debut | 2013 (via Q School) |
| Highest World Ranking | 15 (achieved in November 2024) |
| Ranking Titles | 1 |
| Career Finals | 3 (1 title, 2 runners-up) |
| Notable Victories | Defeated Shaun Murphy, Mark Williams, and John Higgins in the 2024 International Championship |
| First Ranking Title | 2023 Snooker Shoot Out |
| Top Break in Shoot Out | 119 (highest of the week in Leicester) |
| Runner-Up Finishes | 2023 Northern Ireland Open (lost to Judd Trump 3–9) |
| International Championship 2024 | Runner-up (lost to Ding Junhui 7–10) |
| Crucible Appearances | 3 (2018, 2021, 2022); yet to win a match at the Crucible |
| Career Earnings | £341,400 (as of 2023/24 season) |
| Notable Achievements | Reached the final of the 2024 International Championship, marking his first appearance in a ranking event final outside the Shoot Out |
| Playing Style | Known for his calm demeanor, sharp shot-making, and steady temperament |
| Off-Cue Activities | Participated in ‘Strictly Christmas,’ a local ballroom dancing event supporting Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice in Coventry |
| Personal Background | Worked full-time as a delivery driver for ASDA before turning professional |
| Family Support | Strong support from parents, Mark and Angie, who introduced him to snooker at a young age |
Chris Wakelin’s journey in the world of snooker mirrors the resilience and determination seen in other athletes, such as Pakistani cricketer Asif Ali, whose biography highlights a path marked by challenges and triumphs. Similarly, Wakelin’s career has been characterized by perseverance, from his early struggles to his breakthrough at the 2023 Snooker Shoot Out. In his recent matches, including a notable performance against Mark Allen at the 2025 World Snooker Championship, Wakelin has demonstrated the kind of resilience that is often seen in top athletes across various sports. For a detailed look at Asif Ali’s career and personal journey, you can visit his biography here. Additionally, Wakelin’s match against Luca Brecel at the 2025 Masters, where he made his debut in the tournament, was a significant milestone in his career. Brecel’s profile provides insights into the career of another prominent snooker player, highlighting the competitive nature of the sport. You can explore more about Luca Brecel’s career here.Personal Life
Chris Wakelin’s personal life has had its share of challenges and triumphs, shaping the man he is today. Though he’s primarily known for his achievements in snooker, his journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Like many professional athletes, he has faced moments of doubt and personal struggles.
Wakelin’s personal life saw a difficult period in his early 20s when he dealt with personal depression. After struggling with balancing his professional ambitions with the pressures of daily life, Chris took some time away from snooker. During this phase, he worked as a delivery driver for ASDA, a position that offered him the stability to focus on his well-being. However, despite these hardships, Wakelin’s resolve never wavered, and he returned to the sport stronger than ever.
In addition to his snooker career, Chris Wakelin has taken part in charity events and local community activities. He participated in a charity event called “Strictly Christmas,” a local ballroom dancing event aimed at raising funds for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice in Coventry. This shows that, despite his rising fame in snooker, Wakelin has remained deeply involved in helping others and giving back to the community. His social media accounts often highlight his personal life, including moments spent with friends and family.
Chris keeps his personal life relatively private, focusing more on his career. However, it’s clear from his interactions with fans and supporters that he is a humble and grounded individual, showing gratitude for the opportunities he’s had and the people who have supported him along the way.
Family
Chris Wakelin comes from a supportive and loving family. His parents, Mark and Angie Wakelin, have played a crucial role in shaping his career. Chris has often spoken about his parents’ unwavering support throughout his journey. They were instrumental in introducing him to snooker and have been a source of motivation throughout his professional career.
His father, Mark, a keen snooker fan himself, encouraged Chris to pursue the sport, while his mother, Angie, provided emotional support. Chris has frequently expressed gratitude for their guidance, particularly when he faced hardships early in his career. Wakelin’s family remained his cornerstone during difficult times, including when he took a step back from snooker due to personal challenges.
Despite the ups and downs, Chris has remained close to his family, crediting them for his success. His family also played a major role in maintaining his focus and determination to achieve greatness in the sport. The unwavering presence of his parents has ensured that Chris could remain focused on his professional snooker career, even when faced with obstacles.
Though not much is publicly known about Chris’s extended family, his parents have been a visible part of his journey. They have accompanied him to major tournaments and supported him emotionally, ensuring that Chris never lost sight of his goals. The support from his family has been fundamental to his rise in the world of snooker.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chris Wakelin |
| Date of Birth | March 16, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Rugby, Warwickshire, England |
| Height | Approximately 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Parents | Mark and Angie Wakelin |
| Profession | Professional Snooker Player |
| Turned Pro | 2013 |
| Highest Ranking | 15 (as of November 2024) |
| Ranking Titles | 1 (Snooker Shoot Out 2023) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated at £500,000–£600,000 |
Latest News
As of today, April 24, 2025, Chris Wakelin is making headlines at the World Snooker Championship. In his second-round match at the Crucible Theatre, he leads Mark Allen 6–2, showcasing a commanding performance in the best-of-19 frames format. Wakelin’s impressive play has put him in a strong position to advance to the quarterfinals. This follows his notable 10–8 victory over former champion Neil Robertson in the first round, marking his first-ever win at the Crucible .
The 2025 World Snooker Championship is being described as one of the most open and competitive in recent memory, with no clear favorite emerging among the contenders . Wakelin’s strong performance thus far has positioned him as a potential dark horse in the tournament. Snooker enthusiasts and analysts are closely watching his progress, as he continues to demonstrate resilience and skill on the world stage.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Username | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @ChrisWakelin147 | twitter.com/ChrisWakelin147 | |
| @chriswakelin147 | instagram.com/chriswakelin147 |
Physical Appearance and Height
Chris Wakelin stands at approximately 6 feet (183 cm), giving him a commanding presence at the snooker table. His athletic build is a testament to his commitment to fitness, which he attributes to his recent success. Wakelin’s dedication to physical conditioning, including running and ballroom dancing, has enhanced his agility and focus during matches.
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Chris Wakelin’s estimated net worth ranges between £500,000 and £600,000. This estimation reflects his earnings from tournament prize money, sponsorships, and other professional engagements. His financial growth is attributed to his consistent performance and increasing visibility in the snooker circuit.
FAQs
What ranking is Chris Wakelin?
As of April 2025, Chris Wakelin is ranked No. 15 in the world, achieving this career-high position in November 2024
What is Chris Wakelin’s nickname?
Chris Wakelin is affectionately known as “Strictly” among fans and commentators, a nod to his participation in a local ballroom dancing charity event called Strictly Christmas, which raised funds for Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice in Coventry.
Did Chris Wakelin win?
Yes, Chris Wakelin secured his first world ranking title at the 2023 Snooker Shoot Out, defeating Julien Leclercq 1–0 in the final with a break of 119.
