Overview
- The seven-time world champion sold his Essex home and left Britain in the summer after a low-key June wedding to actress Laila Rouass in Shadwell, East London.
- He weighed a move to Spain but chose the UAE for a calmer pace and warmer climate, with Dubai suiting his preference for a simpler life.
- He has stripped his phone of social media, messaging apps and even a web browser, and changed his number so only close family and trusted friends can reach him.
- He says not learning Arabic helps limit day‑to‑day interactions, reinforcing his desire to keep a low profile.
- Based a short hop from his Saudi commitments, he returns to competition this week at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship.