Kyren Wilson claims Masters title at Alexandra Palace
Kyren Wilson held back tears after finally claiming the Masters title at Alexandra Palace, defeating John Higgins 10-6 to pocket £350,000 in prize money, before detailing his emotional turmoil, reports BritPanorama.
The 34-year-old world No 2 had endured heartbreak in two previous finals, including a loss to Shaun Murphy just twelve months ago. At his eleventh attempt, Wilson secured the prestigious Triple Crown event, dedicating the victory to his mother.
“Incredible. In 2018 I lost in the final and cried like a little girl. I am trying not to cry now. This means so much now,” Wilson said. He promised the crystal trophy would take pride of place on his mum’s dining room table.
Wilson revealed he had been “suffering” in the lead-up to the tournament after a freak accident left his cue damaged. “I was in a bad way. I was suffering. It’s so important to have a cue you can trust,” he admitted. The incident occurred before the event in York, leaving the player questioning his future success.
However, he arrived at Alexandra Palace with renewed confidence, crediting his supportive family for helping him through the difficult period. Wilson described the contest against Higgins as an “absolute dogfight” from the opening frames, with both players scrapping for every point. “For me, it was an absolute honour and privilege to share the table with a legend and an idol of mine,” he said.
He confessed to being “borderline desperate” to secure the trophy for his mother, admitting this intense desire may have affected his performance at times. “I was always told to not wish it to come true and you know perhaps that’s why I missed a few silly ones today, because I was almost borderline desperate to win it,” Wilson said. “But thankfully that burden is off of my back and it’s another Triple Crown tournament to tick off the list.”
Wilson will be aiming to retain the title next January, a prospect fueling his drive after what has been a tumultuous journey to this moment.
