Shaun Murphy’s music star fiancee, two divorces and ‘life saving’ surgery | Other | Sport

Shaun Murphy is set to defend his Masters crown against the world’s elite snooker players at Alexandra Palace. The prestigious non-ranking tournament gets underway on Sunday in London, featuring the likes of Zhao Xintong, Judd Trump, Kyren Wilson and John Higgins. Murphy claimed last year’s final against Wilson with a 10-7 victory, securing his second Masters title.

This year’s competition marks a historic milestone with five Chinese players competing for the first time in the tournament’s 51-year history. Murphy captured his maiden British Open crown last September and will enjoy strong backing as he competes at the Ally Pally this month.

Here’s a look at some of his most significant stories, including his ‘life-changing’ surgery and his estimated fortune…

Impressive net worth

Murphy boasts an estimated net worth of approximately £5.3million. This fortune has been amassed through his prize money and his additional work as a snooker pundit.

The 43-year-old regularly features on television coverage when he’s not competing or after being eliminated from tournaments.

‘Life-saving’ surgery

Murphy’s existence was transformed following gastric sleeve surgery in 2022. He had reached 20 stone, leaving him in a “very, very bad state mentally.”

The snooker ace described the procedure as “life-saving” and acknowledged it enhanced his confidence dramatically.

Speaking to Eurosport, Murphy said: “The surgery that I had in May last year has changed my life from top to bottom.

“I think whilst I did not go to see a doctor, had I have done I think someone would have signed me off with complete full depression. I was in a very, very bad state mentally.

“My self-esteem was through the floor and I did not want to go out and play. I did not want to leave the house and that spiralled into feeling miserable and eating more. I don’t think it is too extreme to say it was life-saving for me.”

Music star fiancee

Murphy has found happiness with his fiancee Jo following two challenging divorces from ex-wives Clare and Elaine.

The snooker ace parted ways with Elaine in 2023 after tying the knot in 2016 and having two children – Harry and Molly – together.

This marked the snooker star’s second divorce, having previously split from Clare, his first wife, in 2009. Murphy relocated to Rotherham in 2004 to be with her and they wedded a year later.

But the romance quickly deteriorated and following several published articles that severely damaged their relationship, the couple parted ways in 2009.

Today, the snooker ace is blissfully settled with musician Jo, whom he proposed to in November.

Announcing their engagement on social media, his fiancee wrote: “Four years ago, he booked me for a gig. After many MANY ups and downs, I said Yes to a lifetime of more.”

The couple frequently share tender moments across their social media accounts, with Murphy even taking up running after his partner committed to the London Marathon in 2025.