Six-times Crucible runner-up Jimmy White

He was and is an unbelievable snooker player & has nothing to prove I hope he enjoys his retirement he really deserves it! 

He's always put snooker first, been a model professional, a credit to the game and I'll see him in the legends tour this year for more battles.

I thank him sincerely for some of the best matches and memories of my own career I'm not sure his records will ever be equalled!

2004 UK Champion Stephen Maguire

I'm shocked by the news. Stephen's left his legacy. He's the best player to ever pick up a cue in my eyes.

It's going to take someone to win a lot of tournaments to equal him, and someone to win a lot more world championships to say they're the best.

I honestly can't think of a finer sportsman coming from Scotland, the mans a legend.

1985 World Champion Dennis Taylor

For me, The greatest Player of all time has retired. Some say Steve, some say Ronnie. I have played them all at their best. Stephen shades it.

Stephen Hendry won his first major against me in 1987 (Grand Prix). Great memory for me to cherish. Your the man Stephen!!

Australian Open Champion Stuart Bingham

Referee Paul Collier

2x ranking event finalist Mark King

Just heard Stephen Hendry has retired from professional snooker, i cant believe it, the tour wont be the same without him. #legendlegendlegend

Stephen Hendry 9 Mark King 2 Regal Welsh 1997 Final, that was a snooker lesson like no other, my arse was red raw after that match.

Referee Jan Verhaas

Wow. Stephen Hendry has just announced his retirement!! Thanks for the memories pal! You will be missed. #legend #tearsinmyeyes

At least I will still ref him at the Legends Cup in Bedworth 11-13 May. I will cherish every moment

International Open Champion Neal Foulds

Probably the greatest snooker player ever. I wish him well with whatever he does outside of playing professionally.

I somehow beat Stephen 5-4 in my first ranking match with him when he was 16 in Warrington. Never got close to beating the great man again

Referee Michaela Tabb

Best wishes to Stephen Hendry after announcing his retirement from snooker tonight, a REAL legend forever!!!!!

2009 World Amateur Champion Alfie Burden

Hendry retires unreal. What a player and was good to me when I was a kid, good luck Stephen.

Never forget him making a 148 against me when I was 16 in Sterling. And yes it's an achievement he still talks about!

Honour to practice a lot with him as a kid when he was at his best. #awesome #hendry

Multiple Crucible Qualifier Mike Dunn

Can't believe Stephen Hendry is going to retire, the guy is a genius, thank you for all you've done for snooker

I actually feel gutted, ok I am back in the top 48 but really going to miss him around :-/