Mark Selby wins UK Snooker Championship with 10-8 victory over Judd Trump
Mark Selby secured a £250,000 jackpot after beating Judd Trump 10-8 to win the UK Snooker Championship on Sunday evening at the Barbican in York, reports BritPanorama.
The 42-year-old’s triumph marked his third UK Championship title, further solidifying his reputation in one of snooker’s premier events. This victory also signifies his 15th appearance in the final of a prestigious Triple Crown event.
Selby started the final in dominant fashion, producing an almost flawless display and taking a commanding 5-0 lead after the first five frames. He finished the afternoon session ahead 6-2, putting Trump on the back foot.
Despite a disappointing performance from Trump, who managed to claw back three frames later in the match, Selby maintained his composure. He regained control and won the final frame with a break of 102, ensuring his victory after a tense evening session.
Throughout the match, Selby exhibited remarkable sportsmanship, notably during a pivotal frame where he forfeited a free ball decision to Trump, allowing him a chance to escape a tough snooker situation. Ultimately, Selby’s decision did not detract from his performance, as he sealed the win decisively.
In terms of prize money, Trump received £100,000 for his runner-up finish, while a total of £1,205,000 was available throughout the tournament. This win consolidates Selby’s standing, placing him fourth on the all-time list for Triple Crown titles.
This latest title adds to Selby’s historical legacy, emphasizing his continued success in the sport. For Trump, this loss marks the first time since 2013 that he has not won a tournament in a calendar year, highlighting the highly competitive nature of the game.
As Selby savours this achievement, it serves as a reminder of the fine line in snooker — where champions are made in moments of pressure and the game can shift dramatically with a single frame. The narrative of triumph is often intermingled with tales of heartache, echoing the complexities of the sport itself.