August 18th 2024.
Zak Surety is a professional snooker player who has been facing challenges on and off the table. Despite having his best season last year, his snooker career is still not coming easy to him as he continues to battle anxiety. Recently, the 32-year-old dropped off the tour but quickly bounced back by winning at Q School. However, he struggled in the following season, only winning six matches and leaving himself with a lot to do in order to retain his professional status. Despite this setback, the Essex native had a vastly improved campaign, winning 15 matches and finishing top of the one-year list outside the world's top 64, securing his place on tour for the next two years.
Surety has started this season steadily, qualifying for the Xi'an Grand Prix and Wuhan Open. However, despite his results coming far more consistently, he still struggles with anxiety. In an interview, Surety revealed that he has been dealing with anxiety issues since coming through Q School in 2022. Although they have improved over the last two years, they continue to affect his progress in the game. Every match he plays is still a struggle, and he compares it to closing his eyes and hoping for the best. While he has achieved some good results, he is never satisfied with his performance and feels that he has not played well.
In a recent tournament, the British Open, Surety had a bad anxiety attack which affected his performance. He admits to letting himself down due to the overwhelming feelings he was experiencing. Surety explains that anxiety can be triggered by simple things like travelling away from home, which is a major part of a snooker player's life. He recalls a match against Ben Mertens, which was only two hours away from home, but he still felt unwell and was unable to perform at his best. Despite having multiple chances to win, he lost the match due to his anxiety.
Surety has tried various techniques to cope with his anxiety attacks, including cognitive behavioural therapy and hypnosis. He also sought advice from snooker legend Steve Davis, who gave him some helpful tips on how to deal with his anxiety. While these methods have helped, Surety admits that it can still be challenging to control his anxiety during matches. He loves being a snooker player, but every time a new draw comes out, he worries about his anxiety holding him back.
Despite these challenges, Surety remains determined to succeed in the game. He credits his move to JP's Snooker and Pool Club in Harlow two years ago for improving his life and his results. He now has a more structured routine and the support of former player Jason Pegram, who runs the club. Surety also has the opportunity to practice with top players, including Ali Carter, Joe Perry, Stuart Bingham, and Neil Robertson. Although practicing with Robertson can be mentally challenging, Surety has learned a lot from the six-time world champion and has incorporated some of his techniques into his own game.
Surety is looking forward to the upcoming Xi'an Grand Prix, where he will face Hammad Miah in the second round. He hopes to put his new skills into practice and continue to improve as a player. Despite the challenges he faces, Surety remains committed to his passion for snooker and is determined to overcome his anxiety and reach new heights in his career.
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