Jimmy White still believes

Jimmy White believes he can win his first ever World Championship this year.

The Whirlwind has been a six-time finalist at the Crucible but has lost every one. This included five successive finals between 1990 and 1994. However, the 48-year-old is convinced he is playing better than ever and can finally break his duck.

He said: "I still think I can win it.

"You've only got to play well for 10 days and you win it.

"I've been in the final six times and in the semi-finals 10 times, so you've only got to have a good week and you're there."

White last contested the final back in 1994, losing 18-17 to Stephen Hendry, who is now 40/1 to win in Sheffield in Ladbrokes Snooker Betting. The Englishman has not qualified for the World Championship since 2006 and has a tough passage to reach this year's event, starting with a match against Liu Chuang on Tuesday in the qualifying rounds. Those looking to bet on Snooker may doubt his chances.

Despite this, he admits that winning the elusive trophy is still top of his agenda and is bristling with confidence for the trials ahead.
He continued: "That's the one - I'm still chasing it.

"If I finished without winning the World Championship then I would be disappointed."

Beating Steve Davis in the final of the World Seniors Championship in November has significantly boosted White's confidence and although he still needs to qualify for next month's main event, he insists he will be ready for a title tilt.

Despite his confidence, White also knows that there are many top players on the circuit and to win his first world title will be tough. John Higgins is the current 5/1 favourite in Ladbrokes Snooker Betting to win the title, with Ronnie O'Sullivan at 6/1 and Ding Junhui at 7s.
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