Stephen Hendry has revealed he and Steve Davis would criticise fellow snooker players during private chats. The former adversaries now work together as BBC pundits.

What happened?

Hendry and Davis, both snooker legends, have spoken about their friendship and rivalry. Davis dominated the sport throughout the 1980s, securing six World Snooker Championship crowns.

The Scotsman, Hendry, subsequently went on to claim one more world title than his idol Davis. Their fierce rivalry meant they weren't always close, but Hendry has shared how their relationship evolved over the years.

Why it matters for Stephen Hendry

Hendry has described Davis as having a "brilliant sense of humour". Davis has previously admitted he found it difficult to see the bright side when Hendry started surpassing him, but commended his friend for taking a different path in later years.

Hendry wrote on CueTipsPlus, "Over the years, we became closer. As we started to go down in our careers we both became friendlier with other people." They would sometimes spend time "slagging off" other players, but with a dry sense of humour.

What comes next?

The 57-year-old Hendry is now on good terms with Davis. Looking back on his response, Davis regarded his loss in the 1990 UK Championship final as a changing of the guard and harboured animosity towards Hendry.

But Hendry dealt with the likes of Ronnie O'Sullivan and John Higgins coming along better than Davis did with him. Hendry was quite philosophical about the fact that one day he wouldn't be the best, and this marked a departure from his initial impressions of Davis.

Hendry had sought to emulate Davis in terms of commitment to the sport. "I was in awe of him. He had an aura," Hendry recalled. Davis didn't speak to anyone, and other top players would talk about him as if he was above them.

Hendry remembered thinking, "I'd really like to be talked about like that one day." On 18 June is not mentioned in the source, but Hendry and Davis's friendship has evolved significantly since their playing days.

The two snooker legends now work together as BBC pundits, and their private conversations have become more friendly over the years. Hendry has shared how their relationship evolved, and it's clear that they have a deep respect for each other.

Hendry and Davis have both had successful careers in snooker, with Hendry claiming seven world titles and Davis securing six. They have also both been ranked world No.1, with Davis holding the spot for seven straight years before Hendry took over in 1990.

Their legacy in the sport continues to be felt, and their friendship is a testament to the bonds that can form between former rivals. Hendry and Davis's story is one of friendship and respect, and it's a reminder that even the most fierce rivals can become close friends over time.

Hendry's career has been marked by numerous achievements, including his seven world titles. He has also been ranked world No.1, and has won numerous other tournaments throughout his career.

Davis, on the other hand, has secured six World Snooker Championship crowns and has been ranked world No.1 for seven straight years. He has also won numerous other tournaments, and has been a dominant force in the sport throughout his career.

The two legends continue to be involved in the sport, working as BBC pundits and sharing their expertise with fans around the world. Their friendship is a reminder that even in the competitive world of snooker, respect and admiration can form between former rivals.