World number one Judd Trump says the return of fans will help bring out his best at the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield.
Until now the 2020-21 season has been entirely played behind closed doors because of Covid-19 restrictions.
However, the tournament is part of a government pilot scheme to help fans return to sporting and cultural venues.
“You miss the coughing and the mobile phones going off,” Trump told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“When you are losing and you get a frame or two behind [without fans], it is so much easier to give up because you feel nobody is there to see it.
“When you’ve got a crowd you sometimes take a toilet break just to get the roar of the fans and get them calling your name to get you back in the game. So it makes a huge difference.
“I need the fans there just to bring out the best in me. Just adding more nerves and excitement helps my concentration.”
Source: BBC Sports