WPBSA Permanently Revokes Graeme Dott Membership After Conviction for Historic Sexual Abuse

In a shocking development that has shaken the entire billiards community, the World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA) has permanently revoked Graeme Dott's membership following his conviction for lewd and libidinous behaviour related to historic sexual abuse. The decision was announced on 24 August 2026 via an emergency board meeting with unanimous agreement. Dott was not only stripped of membership but also faces removal from the World Snooker Tour (WST) Hall of Fame, extending the impact to both personal reputation and the sport's legacy. Graeme Dott, a prominent Scottish player in snooker and billiards, had a career marked by contributions to the sport's growth in Europe. However, after being temporarily suspended on 9 April 2026 due to legal proceedings, the situation escalated when he was convicted on 24 August 2026. WPBSA's emergency response led to a permanent revocation, a more severe measure than the prior temporary suspension. Dott has retained appeal rights under the WPBSA constitution, allowing him 21 days to challenge the decision through a general meeting and special resolution. This event highlights the governance framework of the sport. The WPBSA acted swiftly to uphold professional standards after the conviction. The prior suspension in April 2026 and relegation from the professional ranking list at the end of the 2026/26 season show a graduated approach to handling the case. The request to WST for Hall of Fame removal demonstrates cross-organizational coordination, aiming to preserve the sport's historical integrity. In the broader context of billiards governance, the decision reinforces the importance of ethical conduct beyond the table. Dott, known for his safe and controlled playing style, now faces career termination. While performance data is limited due to the suspension, the case underscores the need for compliance with conduct standards in professional sports. The implications for the sport are significant. As a Scottish representative, the action may affect UK billiards representation in the short term. Tour schedules and viewer interest could see minor changes, but the overall ecosystem remains stable. The appeal process provides a structured due-process mechanism, balancing decisiveness with fairness. Overall, WPBSA's permanent revocation sets a strong precedent for serious violations while maintaining legal channels for members. The event serves as a reminder of the sport's commitment to ethical governance, with ongoing monitoring expected for any updates on the appeal or additional statements from WPBSA or WST.