At just 20 years old, Wu’s journey began when he relocated from Lanzhou to the UK at 16 to pursue his passion for snooker. His determination paid off, culminating in this championship win, which comes with a hefty prize of £500,000. “My mum wasn’t in very good health condition for a long time,” Wu reflected after his victory, emphasizing the sacrifices made along his journey. “She sacrificed everything for me.”

This championship final was notable not only for its thrilling conclusion but also because it lasted the full 35 frames, showcasing both players’ skills and tenacity. Wu’s triumph puts him at number four in the snooker rankings, while Judd Trump retains his position as world number one.

Meanwhile, Chang Bingyu, despite not participating in the main tournament, earned £172,000 after achieving a remarkable 147 maximum break during qualifying. His recent ban related to a match-fixing scandal—which lasted 20 months—still looms over his career. Observers note that Chang was only 20 years old when his actions took place.

Key statistics:

• Wu Yize won £500,000 as prize money for his championship victory.
• Chang Bingyu earned £172,000 despite not competing in the final stages.
• The championship final was one of the few to last all 35 frames.
• Wu Yize is now ranked fourth in world snooker rankings.
• Judd Trump remains the world number one.
• Zhao Xintong holds third place in the rankings.

The excitement doesn’t stop here; players will soon participate in Q School tournaments from May 13 to May 31, 2026, aiming to secure spots on the World Snooker Tour. As Chinese snooker continues to rise, Wu Yize’s victory serves as an inspiring chapter in its history.

The post Snooker: Wu Yize Triumphs in at the Crucible Theatre appeared first on NewsUK.

The match unfolded in an electrifying atmosphere, culminating in a deciding 35th frame—the first of its kind since 2002. Wu Yize, at just 22, became the second-youngest player to win this prestigious title. The final score underscored the intensity of their battle, with both players showcasing their skills and resilience.

At one point, Murphy found himself trailing 10-7 but rallied to take a 12-10 lead. Yet, Wu was undeterred. He fought back to tie the match at 16-16, with Murphy making a stunning clearance of 131. The audience held its breath as both competitors exchanged blows, leading to a nail-biting finish.

Key moments from the final:

• Wu produced a decisive break of 85 in the final frame to secure his victory.
• Murphy had previously lost four World Championship finals, including his last against Mark Selby in 2021.
• This victory marks the second consecutive year that a Chinese player has claimed the championship title, following Zhao Xintong’s win in 2025.

Reflecting on his journey, Wu shared, “My parents are the true champions,” highlighting their support throughout his career. His path was not easy; he dropped out of school to pursue snooker seriously while managing personal challenges at home.

Murphy’s respect for his young opponent shone through as he remarked earlier in the season that he knew Wu would be world champion one day. “I hate being right,” he added with a wry smile after the match. The spirit of competition at the Crucible Theatre was palpable—two generations colliding on one stage.

The world now watches as Wu Yize steps into the spotlight of snooker, following a legacy of greats and carving out his own future. With such talent emerging from China, fans can expect more thrilling matches ahead as this young champion begins his ascent.

The post Shaun Murphy World Snooker Championship appeared first on NewsUK.

The match featured Shaun Murphy and Wu Yize, with Wu leading 10-7 after two sessions. As the players prepared for a pivotal moment, Swan jumped over a barrier and shouted, “who f—ing pays their TV licence anyway?” This unexpected interruption momentarily halted play and led to her ejection from the venue.

This wasn’t an isolated event. Just days earlier, another spectator had been removed during a semi-final for shouting about the Epstein files. These incidents are part of a troubling trend of protests that have marred this year’s championship.

Key moments of disruption:

• Sasha Swan’s protest during the final match between Shaun Murphy and Wu Yize.
• Wu Yize held a lead of 10-7 after two sessions when the protest occurred.
• Another spectator was ejected for shouting during a semi-final match.

John Parrott, commenting on the situation, reassured viewers: “Sorry for that disturbance, it’s all sorted.” Meanwhile, Rob Spencer reminded fans to keep their phones silent to avoid further disruptions.

The World Snooker Championship has faced similar protests in previous years. In 2024, Just Stop Oil activists targeted the finals, drawing attention to environmental issues. This year’s protests reflect deeper societal concerns regarding media funding and accountability.

As tensions around funding models continue to escalate, one thing is clear: such interruptions may become more common in high-profile events like this. With no clear resolution in sight regarding public sentiment towards the BBC licence fee, future matches could see more protests disrupting play.

The post Snooker final interrupted by spectator protest at the crucible appeared first on NewsUK.

As she spoke, Hazel acknowledged that it was also John’s wife Rosie’s birthday. “It’s also John’s fantastic wife’s Rosie’s birthday today. I know you’ll be watching and we send all the love in the world to you,” she said, highlighting the personal nature of her message.

Hazel’s career spans nearly 40 years in television, predominantly with the BBC. She has established herself as a leading figure among snooker presenters. In 2008, she married her long-term partner in a private ceremony in Scotland.

The couple welcomed their daughter in 2009, just months after their wedding. At the time of her pregnancy announcement, Hazel was 43 years old, a moment she recalls fondly. Yet, despite her public persona, details about her husband remain undisclosed.

In recent years, Hazel made a conscious decision to cut back on golf commitments to focus more on family life. This shift allows her to balance her professional responsibilities while nurturing her personal relationships.

During the tribute to John Virgo, Hazel reflected on his impact on snooker. “I think John Parrott said it for all of us at the memorial…if only you had 30 seconds to say what you really feel about someone,” she remarked. This sentiment encapsulates not only her respect for Virgo but also her appreciation for those who contribute to the sport.

Currently fronting the BBC’s coverage of the World Snooker Championships, Hazel continues to be a prominent voice in sports broadcasting. Her dedication shines through as she navigates both personal milestones and professional achievements.

The atmosphere during the final was charged with emotion as fans remembered John Virgo—who many believe would have loved every moment of it. As Hazel concluded her tribute, it became clear that her bond with this community runs deep.

The post Hazel Irvine’s Tribute to John Virgo at the World Snooker Championship appeared first on NewsUK.

This miss echoes through snooker history, reminiscent of Steve Davis’s infamous black ball miss during the 1985 final against Dennis Taylor. At that time, Davis was on the brink of victory, leading 17-15 before faltering on what seemed an easy shot. Taylor capitalized on this slip-up and ultimately won the championship 18-17, forever altering both players’ legacies.

The immediate fallout from Allen’s miss was palpable. Wu Yize seized the opportunity and edged past him with a score of 17-16. As Allen left the table, he faced not just disappointment but also comparisons to one of snooker’s most storied moments. Joe Perry commented later, “You really like to think that shot wasn’t caused by the distraction in the crowd,” highlighting how external pressures can influence performance.

These two incidents serve as stark reminders of how fleeting success can be in sports. Davis’s miss became part of snooker lore—an iconic moment that shaped public perception and media narratives around pressure in high-stakes matches. Today, commentators and fans alike reflect on these pivotal moments to understand better the mental fortitude required at this level.

For many players, including Shaun Murphy and Joe Perry, such experiences are cautionary tales. They illustrate that even champions can stumble under pressure. Dennis Taylor himself noted how much public affection for players extends beyond their performance: “John wasn’t only loved by snooker fans around the world; he was loved for what he did on Big Break with Jim Davidson,” showing how personality plays into legacy.

As for Steve Davis today, he has transitioned into a new phase of life as an artist and educator while still being celebrated for his contributions to snooker. His installation “We Tell Them They Can Fly” currently exhibits through May 31. He also teaches art courses at San Jose State University, proving that while one chapter may end, another can begin with creativity and passion.

The contrast between these two missed shots—one from decades ago and one just recently—underscores how certain moments can define careers. In snooker, where precision is paramount and stakes are high, each decision at the table carries weight beyond mere points; it shapes history itself.

The post Steve Davis and Mark Allen: A Tale of Missed Opportunities appeared first on NewsUK.

At the end of the session, the score stood at 7-7, but only six of the eight scheduled frames were played. The match reached an impasse where neither player potted a ball for an agonizing 55 minutes. Referee Marcel Eckardt intervened, warning both players as frustration mounted.

Allen eventually broke the stalemate by fouling and nudging the black ball, which allowed Wu Yize to secure his only frame of the afternoon after another 30 minutes elapsed. Steve Davis did not hold back on his criticism, calling this frame an embarrassment to snooker.

Key statistics from this match:

• The 14th frame lasted a total of 100 minutes and 21 seconds.
• The session concluded with a score of 7-7 between the two competitors.
• Only six out of eight frames were completed in this session.
• A total of 55 minutes passed without any balls being potted.
• Wu Yize won his frame after an additional 30 minutes had gone by.

World Snooker has since ruled out making changes regarding frame re-racks following this incident. The governing body seems to be standing firm on its existing regulations despite calls for reevaluation. As snooker enthusiasts reflect on this historic moment, it remains unclear how these events will influence future matches or potential rule changes.

The post Snooker score: The Longest Frame in Crucible History: Insights appeared first on NewsUK.

Higgins has been a stalwart of the sport, seeded at every World Championship since 1996. His journey has been marked by triumphs and challenges, including multiple titles in the prestigious Triple Crown. However, he admits that qualifying for major tournaments feels increasingly daunting.

Key facts:

• Higgins anticipates retiring if his ranking falls outside the top 16.
• The Crucible Theatre will host the World Championship until 2045.
• Renovations are set to begin post-2028, casting doubt on his return.

Shaun Murphy described their match as “exhausting yet exhilarating.” He noted how Higgins seems to elevate his game under pressure, highlighting why he is regarded as one of snooker’s legends. Yet, for Higgins, the reality of potentially needing to qualify for events weighs heavily. “I don’t think I can see myself having to qualify for big events,” he said, revealing his inner conflict about stepping back from the sport.

This chapter in Higgins’ life is not merely about victories and losses; it’s about legacy. He has inspired many upcoming players while navigating through three decades of competition at the highest level. The snooker community watches closely as he considers what lies ahead.

As renovations approach at the Crucible Theatre—an iconic venue where many memories were made—Higgins feels a sense of finality. “I think I’ll be doing well to be back here playing it,” he remarked, encapsulating his uncertainty about future appearances.

While snooker fans may hold their breath for one last performance from this champion, Higgins himself contemplates his next steps with equal parts nostalgia and realism. His impact on the sport remains undeniable, and as he approaches this crossroads, one thing stands clear: John Higgins will always be remembered as a titan of snooker.

The post John Virgo: Reflections on John Higgins’ Snooker Journey appeared first on NewsUK.

Davis dominated the snooker scene with an impressive record: 15 Triple Crown events and 28 ranking titles. Yet, his composed demeanor earned him the moniker ‘Mr Boring’. He reflected on this perception, saying, “I wasn’t a politician, I was a snooker player – I was only an ambassador of that sport. So I didn’t lose much sleep over it in the end really.” This sentiment underscores how he viewed his public image versus the reality of his personal choices.

The decisive moment came when he embarked on an affair with 19-year-old dancer Cheree Palla while he was 39 and married to Judy Greig. The revelation shattered his marriage, leading to their separation in 2005 after more than a decade together. In hindsight, Davis acknowledged the impact of his choices: “Perhaps I was giving the table a bit too much attention.”

The fallout from the affair was significant. It not only ended his marriage but also altered public perception. Once seen as merely an athlete, he became embroiled in scandal—what he later termed a “kiss-and-tell scandal” when details emerged about his relationship with Palla.

Transitioning from snooker to music, Davis has carved out a new identity as a DJ and co-founder of The Utopia Strong. He has performed at notable venues such as the Glastonbury Festival and even supported Blur at Wembley Stadium. His foray into music appears to have revitalized him; he now describes himself as someone who embraces uncertainty: “You just don’t know what is going to happen.”

Despite the dramatic shifts in his life, Davis has maintained financial stability with an estimated net worth of around £26.5 million and over £5.6 million accumulated from prize money during his snooker career. He acknowledges that sportspeople can be selfish: “I described myself as difficult to live with.” This self-awareness adds depth to his character.

Today, Steve Davis embodies the complexity of reinvention—he’s no longer just ‘Mr Boring’, but rather a multifaceted individual navigating both personal and professional transformations.

The post Steve Davis appeared first on NewsUK.

During a recent commentary stint, Taylor praised the high standard of play exhibited in the quarter-finals, where John Higgins edged out Ronnie O’Sullivan 13-12. “Never, he never ever gives up John Higgins. That’s one thing about him,” Taylor remarked, emphasizing Higgins’ resilience.

Reflecting on Xintong’s abilities, he stated, “Zhao Xintong for me is like a left-handed Ronnie O’Sullivan. He falls into the shot. He’s so natural.” This comparison places Xintong among the elite players in snooker history.

However, competition remains fierce. Mark Allen is emerging as a dark horse for the championship according to Taylor. He urged fans not to overlook Allen’s potential: “Don’t be surprised of Mark Allen. It’s time Northern Ireland had another world champion.” This adds an intriguing layer to the upcoming championship.

Taylor himself made history in 1985 when he won the World Championship against Steve Davis in what is famously known as the black-ball final. His insights now carry significant weight as he analyzes current and future talents in the sport.

As anticipation builds for the 2026 event at the iconic Crucible Theatre, snooker enthusiasts are eager to see if Taylor’s predictions hold true. The spotlight will undoubtedly remain on Zhao Xintong as he seeks to solidify his place among snooker legends.

The post Dennis Taylor predicts Zhao Xintong’s success at the World Snooker Championship appeared first on NewsUK.

The tension escalated when Hendry expressed doubts about Allen’s playing style, stating, “I don’t think personally you can win the World Championship playing this way.” Allen responded with frustration, saying, “Look, Stephen’s entitled to his opinion. But more often than not, he’s full of rubbish to be honest.” This back-and-forth highlighted not just personal grievances but also a clash of philosophies in snooker.

Hendry, a seven-time world champion, last won the World Snooker Championship in 1999. His insights carry weight due to his illustrious career. Yet, they also reflect a bygone era of snooker that some current players find outdated. For instance, Shaun Murphy quipped, “Has someone checked Stephen?” indicating that Hendry’s views might not align with contemporary strategies.

This generational tension isn’t new. John Parrott disagreed with Hendry regarding players experiencing a ‘hangover’ from previous matches. “I certainly don’t subscribe to Shaun Murphy having a hangover, not at all,” Hendry countered, further illustrating how opinions differ among snooker’s elite.

The context of this criticism is significant. As players like Allen and Murphy showcase dynamic styles and mental resilience—Murphy notably coming back from three frames down against Zhao Xintong—Hendry’s traditional perspectives may seem out of touch. He praised Murphy’s performance as “championship-winning form,” yet his critiques suggest a reluctance to embrace change.

As these narratives unfold in the World Snooker Championship, reactions from both fans and commentators will likely shape discussions around what it means to compete at the highest level today. The evolving nature of snooker reflects broader changes in sports culture and player mentality.

The post Stephen Hendry Faces Criticism from Mark Allen appeared first on NewsUK.