Northern Ireland's Mark Allen hit only the 15th maximum 147 break in the history of the World Snooker Championship, but was still left facing elimination from the tournament on Friday.

Allen produced his brilliant frame in a second-round match against qualifier Chris Wakelin at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.

The 39-year-old punched the air after sinking the final black and was warmly congratulated by Wakelin.

Allen is only the 11th player to make a 147 at the famed Crucible, while it was the 15th maximum in the main draw of the tournament and the first since Mark Selby in the 2023 final.

Allen will receive a £45,000 (US$59,000) prize for recording the 217th maximum in snooker history.

Seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry said Allen's clearance was "absolutely phenomenal" and added: "What a performance. Unbelievable. Incredible from Mark Allen.

"He was 10-2 behind and he's not scored a point for three frames, comes out after the interval and he makes a 147."

However, Wakelin remains in control of the tie after building a 12-4 advantage that leaves him needing one more frame to reach the quarter-finals. (AFP)