Steve Davis sends clear message to BBC as World Snooker Championship pundit blown away

Snooker icon has spoken candidly about rediscovering his passion for the sport and his position at the .

The 67-year-old, who reigned supreme in the 1980s with a staggering six titles, admitted that his interest in had faded in recent years, sparking fears among supporters about his continued presence on television. But ahead of the , Davis claimed that he'd fallen back in love with the game, signalling a notable shift in his perspective.

"There was a time a little while ago where I thought, 'Oh here we go, World Championship, it doesn't matter to me who wins. I'll go up there, do my job and keep my head down'," he admitted.

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"But as time's gone on I'm getting more into trying to see who the best players are, who's going to win it and I'm enjoying it more, remembering what it's like being a player."

Davis described the change in mindset as a major turning point. "I've turned a corner, it's very strange," he told . "So I'm looking forward to seeing how it all unfolds.

"The older players trying to hold back the years, the younger players coming through. It's a really great time to be a snooker fan now. So many great players."

This renewed vigour has emerged during what Davis considers an exceptional era for the sport. He finds the clash between seasoned veterans and rising stars particularly compelling. "It's a really great time to be a snooker fan now. So many great players," he added.

Davis also noted a dramatic improvement in skill levels, with unbelievable shots now commonplace.

"Watching players now, you're forever going, 'Wow, what a shot!' It's a bombardment. The likes of which snooker fans had never really seen before," he said.

"The levels have raised. If I can't enjoy that, then there's something wrong."

His rekindled devotion to snooker has strengthened his passion for his role at the BBC too. "I'm enjoying being part of the BBC team, so as long as they're enjoying it, then I'm delighted," he admitted.

He praised his colleagues, calling them a "great bunch of people" who share his appreciation for the sport's drama and intensity.

"All of a sudden, there's great storylines and so many great matches," he continued, explaining that he’s more engaged with the game now than he was 10 years ago.

With Davis once again energised by both the competition and the commentary box, it's clear he's not ready to retire anytime soon – much to the relief, no doubt, of his loyal fan base.