Neil Robertson has revealed how the serious illness of his partner has meant snooker has had to come secondary in his life in recent times.

Neil Robertson. Picture courtesy of Monique Limbos

The popular Australian revealed on Instagram on Tuesday that his partner Mille had been suffering problems with depression and anxiety over the last two years and how life has been hard for them to cope with it.

But he stressed Mille was now “winning the battle”.

This is not the first time Robertson has opened up about problems away from the table. Earlier this year he confessed to having some sort of computer game addiction which also impacted on his game.

The world number 10 has not lifted a major ranking title in almost a year and a half and needs a strong run in the UK Championship to have any chance of qualifying for The Masters.

Yesterday, the 2010 world champion revealed the problems he had been facing on a daily basis but vowed to return to his glory days of lifting silverware having worked so hard on his game during the past two months.

Robertson’s emotional post read: “It’s been very tough for my family since winning the UK 2 years ago. With Mille battling Anxiety and Depression since 2015, Snooker unfortunately just hasn’t been the focus.

“Mille is now winning the battle and I couldn’t be prouder.

“I’ve never been working harder on my game these past couple of months and determined as ever. If success won’t come in the next tournament, it will come in the next, and if not that one the one after💪🏻

“I ask anyone who has a friend or loved one that is struggling with mental health to please talk to them! Nobody wants to struggle with this and inside is dying for help. Please offer that help before it’s too late. It almost was for us❤️ @millekath”

Robertson begins his UK Championship campaign on Thursday when he faces Rod Lawler in the opening round – a match he must win to keep his hopes alive of booking his place for The Masters in January.