Australian snooker star Neil Robertson found himself on the receiving end of crowd hostility at Alexandra Palace on Wednesday after referencing his nation’s dominant Ashes triumph over England.
The 43-year-old Melbourne native had just secured a convincing 6-2 victory against Chris Wakelin to book his place in the Masters semi-finals.
During his post-match interview, Robertson couldn’t resist a playful dig at the English fans present.
“With Australia winning the Ashes I didn’t know if I was going to get booed or cheered coming down the stairs,” the snooker ace remarked, prompting an immediate hostile response from the Ally Pally faithful.
The spectators wasted no time in voicing their displeasure, with one particularly irate supporter audibly shouting “f**k you” at the Australian player.
Robertson appeared entirely unfazed by the backlash, simply responding “There we go” whilst chuckling at the crowd’s reaction.
The 43-year-old has seemingly embraced his role as snooker’s pantomime villain, taking the jeers in good humour rather than showing any sign of regret for his provocative comments.
Australian snooker star Neil Robertson found himself on the receiving end of crowd hostility at Alexandra Palace on Wednesday after referencing his nation’s dominant Ashes triumph over England | PA
His willingness to wind up English audiences over their cricket team’s humiliating 4-1 series defeat Down Under has become something of a trademark for the Melbourne-born star.
This was not the first occasion Robertson has needled English supporters over their cricket woes.
Five quirky facts about snooker | PA
At the UK Championship in December, he staged an even more theatrical provocation ahead of his encounter with Judd Trump.
The Australian mimicked batting strokes using his snooker case as he made his entrance, drawing predictable boos from the crowd. Robertson later admitted to referee Ben Williams: “I was not going to do it. I nearly didn’t do it.”
TNT Sports commentator Neal Foulds offered a wry response to the antics, joking: “I would not have given a towel to Neil Robertson anyway after that walk-on where he mocked English cricket, I think.
“I would have left him with no towel, no drink, nothing.”
Chris Wakelin was no match for Neil Robertson in their clash at the Masters
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PA
Despite his apparent delight in antagonising English crowds, Robertson was effusive in his appreciation for the Alexandra Palace atmosphere following his quarter-final triumph.
“I can’t thank you guys enough, a brilliant atmosphere,” he told supporters. “This is the best event in terms of the atmosphere that we play in, yeah, awesome.”
The Australian went further, suggesting his fellow professionals share his admiration for the iconic north London venue.
“It’s an amazing arena and the crowds are always brilliant every single time. It’s packed out for every match so if you can’t get inspired by this then you’re probably doing the wrong thing,” he added.
