Mark Williams has made an audacious promise: if he wins his fourth World Snooker Championship, he'll run naked along the M4 motorway from London to Cardiff.
At 51, the Welsh veteran is chasing history—not just another trophy, but the chance to become the oldest world champion ever, surpassing Ronnie O'Sullivan's record. Williams, known for his colorful personality, isn't shy about his desperation for victory.
"I'd run down the M4 from London to Cardiff naked," Williams declared, adding, "I'd do anything to get another title, but the years go by and you're less likely to win it."
This isn't the first time Williams has followed through on a bold pledge. After his 2018 Crucible triumph, he famously attended his post-match press conference wearing only a towel, having promised to strip if he won. That victory over John Higgins marked his third world title, adding to wins in 2000 and 2003.
Last year, Williams came agonizingly close to making history as the oldest finalist, only to fall 18-12 to China's Zhao Xintong. Now, with the 2026 championship underway, he's battling more than just opponents.
Williams has been grappling with deteriorating eyesight, awaiting lens replacement surgery that carries risks. "If it goes wrong, that's the end," he admitted, noting that fellow player Anthony Hamilton's career was derailed by similar issues due to TV glare. He's also faced the 'yips'—a sudden loss of skill execution—and described himself as "a paranoid mess" earlier this year.
Despite these challenges, Williams remains a formidable force. Last October, at 50 years and 206 days, he broke Ray Reardon's 1982 record to become the oldest ranking event winner with victory at the Xi'an Grand Prix. Currently ranked sixth globally, he's still practicing intensely, aiming to regain his timing.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether Williams can turn his motorway jest into reality—and snooker history.