Desislava Bozhilova will etch her name in snooker history this Sunday as she becomes only the second woman to referee the final of the prestigious World Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.
The Bulgarian official, known for her calm demeanor and sharp officiating, has long been a respected figure on the professional snooker circuit. Her selection for the final is a landmark moment for the sport, symbolizing progress in gender representation at the highest level of competition.
Bozhilova, 32, began refereeing professionally in 2012 and has officiated at many ranking events, including the UK Championship and the Masters. Her appointment to the final of snooker’s most iconic tournament follows in the footsteps of Michaela Tabb, who made history in 2009 as the first woman to referee a World Championship final.
“I’m incredibly proud and honored,” Bozhilova said ahead of the match. “The Crucible final is the pinnacle for any snooker referee, and to be given this opportunity means a great deal—not just to me, but hopefully to many young women watching who are considering a career in officiating.”
The final, spanning two days, is expected to draw millions of viewers around the world. With the championship regarded as the ultimate test of a player’s skill and endurance, the role of the referee is pivotal in ensuring smooth, fair, and uninterrupted play.
World Snooker Tour Chairman Steve Dawson praised Bozhilova’s appointment, calling it “richly deserved” and adding that she had “set the standard for officiating with professionalism, poise, and precision.”
Bozhilova’s achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a step forward for diversity and inclusion in snooker, a sport traditionally dominated by men both on and off the table. Her appearance on the game’s biggest stage is expected to inspire a new generation of referees and fans alike.
The final will be broadcast live on Sunday, with Bozhilova taking her historic place in the spotlight at the Crucible.
