Streaker at the Masters Snooker Final: The Story Behind the Audacious Act

During the 1997 Masters Snooker Final, an unexpected spectacle took place that left both players and spectators stunned. Lianne Crofts, a secretary from Oxon, decided to streak naked across the table during the intense match between snooker legends Steve Davis and [player’s name not mentioned in the article]. The 24-year-old Crofts later revealed that her inspiration for the audacious act stemmed from a childhood memory of witnessing a streaker at a football match.

In a candid interview with The People in 1999, Crofts disclosed her motives behind the streaking incident. She recalled watching a football game with her parents when she was just six years old and being captivated by the appearance of a streaker on the field. The young Crofts immediately voiced her desire to emulate the daring act when she grew up. Years later, while visiting friends in London, she discovered the Masters Snooker Championship and saw an opportunity to fulfill her childhood dream.

Not particularly a fan of snooker and deeming the sport “boring,” Crofts believed injecting some excitement into the final would be greatly welcomed. She further explained her impulsive decision, stating, “It came to me as quick as a flash, if you’ll excuse the pun. A big snooker championship would be a great place to do my streak.”

During the final match, Crofts anxiously settled into her seat among elderly spectators, aware of the significant risk she was about to take. At the 30-minute mark, bored yet exhilarated, she swiftly removed all her clothes, much to the shock of two nearby individuals. Finally naked, she made her way towards the table, parading around it for a memorable 15 seconds of fame.

Amidst the chaos, the leading player at the time, [Ronnie O’Sullivan], demonstrated a sense of humor. He shielded the referee’s eyes during Crofts’ nude parade, adding an amusing touch to the unexpected interruption. However, despite the distraction, the snooker icon ended up losing to the opponent [Steve Davis], resulting in Davis’ third Masters title.

Now, 27 years after the notorious event, Ronnie O’Sullivan is on the brink of potentially securing a record-breaking eighth Masters title. In the upcoming final on January 14th, he will face off against Ali Carter, determined to etch his name further into snooker history.