A spectator disrupted the World Snooker Championship semi-final at the Crucible Theatre by shouting about the Epstein Files, leading to his immediate ejection.

Disruption During Deciding Frame

The incident unfolded during the tense 33rd frame between Wu Yize and Mark Allen on Saturday night in Sheffield. As Wu prepared his shot, the fan yelled, “Never forget the Epstein Files,” referencing documents linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The outburst, audible throughout the venue, prompted referee Marcel Eckardt to demand removal. “Can you get this person out please, now please,” Eckardt urged.

Onlookers quickly told the standing spectator to quiet down, showing surprise at the shout’s content. Security escorted him out promptly.

Thrilling Semi-Final Conclusion

Allen, leading 16-15, missed a straightforward black, handing Wu the chance to force a decider. Wu capitalized, securing a dramatic 17-16 victory and advancing to the final.

Prior Stalemate Adds to Chaos

This disruption followed a record-breaking stalemate in the same match on Friday. The players exchanged safety shots for over 100 minutes in a frame where eight reds blocked the black, making pots impossible. Eckardt intervened, awarding three shots each. Allen fouled intentionally by potting the black to end it, but Wu rallied to tie the session 7-7.

The 100-minute, 21-second frame drew criticism. Six-time world champion Steve Davis called the scenes “embarrassing,” while seven-time Crucible winner Stephen Hendry labeled it the “dark side of snooker.”