No first time winner has successfully retained the Embassy world championship title but Ken Doherty the 28-year-old Dubliner believes he can make history as he begins his defence at the Crucible Theatre today, against Welshman Lee Walker, the 1997 quarter-finalist.

In his final interview before the action starts, Doherty said: "I've had the best year of my life and I don't want to give the cup back.

"Most people take their dog with them when they go for a loaf of bread. I used to take the trophy," joked the world number three, looking totally relaxed with just 48 hours to go before beginning the 1998 tournament.

"I know history is against me but I'm not ruled by past results," insisted Doherty who has not won any major silverware since defeating Scotsman Stephen Hendry 18-12 last May.

"I'm certainly not scared of the prospect of having to defend the championship. I will play with the same attitude as I came here with last year and hopefully that will see me through.

"The standard of the next 17 days I believe is going to be the highest that it's ever been. There will be a few shocks and surprises as usual though many of the top players are producing their best form when it matters most.

"Everyone is talking about O'Sullivan, Hendry and Higgins but I wouldn't be surprised if there is an upset along the way because they're under so much pressure. It's been said the bottom half is a lot tougher than the top but don't expect me to be complacent.

"Despite not winning any other tournaments this has been one of my most consistent seasons," added Doherty.

"I've lost seven or eight semi-finals, many by the odd frame or two, and with a little luck I might easily have picked up one or two more titles.

"I have no regrets about winning the title. There are many great players who have never won it and I'm honoured to be one of those that has."