Mark Selby says wife’s shock cancer diagnosis ‘blew head apart’ and gives positive update on ‘warrior’ partner’s health

MARK SELBY has opened up on his wife’s cancer diagnosis.

The Leicester cueman endured a difficult season ahead of the Crucible in Sheffield.

Mark Selby’s wife Vikki was diagnosed with breast cancer last yearGetty

Instagram @markselby_7Mark Selby and Vikki have a daughter Sofia[/caption]

Selby, 40, has had to deal with his wife Vikki being diagnosed with breast cancer last year as well as the passing of a close friend.

He is aiming for a fifth world championship and has been boosted by an improvement in his wife’s health.

He told the Express: “Vikki’s been suffering with her health and I’ve wanted to be there to care for her, so it’s been tough, really tough.

“It’s been madness to be honest, especially with Vikki’s diagnosis last year. It blew our heads apart.

“You never think it’s going to be you, but touch wood she’s good.

“She’s finished her [chemotherapy] treatment and she’s having regular checks.

“She’s a warrior, she amazes me because she was stronger than me when it all happened.

“So, this year, I’ve not set any expectations on myself; I just want to make sure I enjoy myself.

“If I do enjoy it then I’ll know that my hunger is still there.

“If you come to the Crucible and don’t enjoy the tournament, well then you know you’ve got problems.

“But I had butterflies driving up to the venue, which is a good sign.”

Selby had thought of retiring from the sport due to his lack of enjoyment.

He added: “I only said I’d think about retiring because I’ve not really been enjoying it [playing snooker].

“I’ve always said when it gets to the point where I’m not enjoying it, well then I’ll definitely contemplate calling it a day.”

Selby is currently 7-2 down to debutant Joe O’Connor in the first round ahead of the resumption of their match today.