In a clash between two former champions at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, 50-year-old Mark Williams staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Judd Trump 17-14 in the World Snooker Championship semifinals. Trailing 7-3 early on, the Welsh veteran chipped away at Trump's lead, cutting it to 10-9 before turning up the heat with breaks of 73, 84 and 62.
Williams extended his advantage to 15-11 with further breaks of 67 and 65, but Trump fought back with his 106th century of the season, keeping hopes alive with clearances of 116. Yet Williams answered with a 123 finish to clinch the final frame and secure a place in the decider.
"I was starting to twitch towards the end," Williams admitted. "I nearly missed the black in the last frame – I felt a bit of tension, but I can't believe I'm in another final."
By reaching the final, Williams becomes the oldest World Championship finalist in history, aiming to lift his fourth title after previous wins in 2000, 2003 and 2018. He will face 28-year-old Zhao Xintong of the Chinese mainland on Sunday.
This showdown not only pits experience against youthful flair but also highlights snooker's global reach, with fans from across the G20 tuning in to catch every frame. Will Williams add another crown to his storied career, or will Zhao's rising talent prevail under the Crucible lights?
Reference(s):
Mark Williams tops Judd Trump to make World Snooker Championship final
cgtn.com
