Ali Carter diagnosed with testicular cancer

Two-time World Snooker Championship finalist Ali Carter has confirmed that he has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.

The 33-year-old, who has previously recovered from Crohn's disease, will undergo surgery on Tuesday, which will be followed by a bout of chemotherapy.

"I hope to be back in action soon," Carter said on the World Snooker official website.

World Snooker chairman Barry Hearn added: "Ali has shown in his battle against Crohn's disease that he is a fighter. We hope for a positive outcome and everyone in snooker is 100% behind him. We look forward to seeing him back on the circuit soon."

Carter, who has been ranked as high as number two in the world, reached the World Championship final in 2008 and 2012.