11.1 C
Manchester
Tuesday, April 1, 2025
Other SportsWilson holds off Jones to seal maiden Crucible title

Wilson holds off Jones to seal maiden Crucible title

Kyren Wilson claimed his first World Snooker Championship despite a nervy fightback from Jak Jones at the Crucible.

The 32-year-old Englishman held a 15-10 advantage going into Monday’s final session in Sheffield and was soon a frame away from victory at 17-11.

Welshman Jones – just the ninth qualifier to reach the Crucible final in the past 47 years – had battled back from an early 7-0 deficit and he showed more grit to reel off three straight frames and close the gap to 17-14.

However Wilson – who had lost 18-8 to Ronnie O’Sullivan in his only other previous appearance on this stage in 2020 – held his nerve with a match-winning break of 42 in the decisive 32nd frame

The World No12 claimed the £500,000 top prize and told BBC Sport: “It means so much to us all. My mum and dad have remortgaged and sacrificed their whole lives to get me here.

“I have dreamed of this moment. It was so nice to have the family there because we have been on a real rollercoaster of a journey since I was six years old.”

‘The Warrior,’ who hails from Kettering, immediately targeted another Crucible crown, adding: “I believe I can be a multiple World Champion and I’d be disappointed if I only landed one.

“That first one has got to be the hardest. I’ve got it off my back and nobody can take that away from me.”

World No44 Jones, who began the tournament as a 200-1 outsider, told BBC Sport: “It’s been an unbelievable tournament for me. About a month ago I was twitching in my first qualifying match. It’s been a long month but I’m happy with it.

“I am proud because I don’t think I have played that well, so to beat some of the best players in the world and get to a final, and come so close to winning, gives me confidence.”

Alex Hoad
Alex Hoad
Alex has more than 15 years' experience in sports journalism and has reported on multiple Olympics, World Cups and European Championships in additional to Champions League, Europa League and domestic football.
Latest

Investigation launched into a stabbing at Alexandra Road retail park

An investigation is underway after a 19-year-old man was stabbed at Alexandra Road retail park yesterday afternoon. The victim was taken to hospital with serious...

Interactive roadshows set to help people identify bowel cancer symptoms

Two interactive roadshows are taking place in Manchester to help people identify the symptoms of bowel cancer. New research reveals that 35% of adults in...

Woman discovered in River Mersey last year is identified

A woman who was discovered in the River Mersey last year has been identified following an extensive police investigation. She can now be named as...

Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity raises £40,000 at 2025 Gala Dinner

A night of dinner, dancing and a surprise DJ set from Andy Burnham has raised £40,000 for the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity – more than...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity raises £40,000 at 2025 Gala Dinner

A night of dinner, dancing and a surprise DJ set from Andy Burnham has raised £40,000 for the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity – more than...

Reflect Clinic Marks Mother’s Day by Empowering Women Through Personalised Mummy Makeover

As Mother’s Day approaches, Reflect Clinic is encouraging women to focus on their own wellbeing with its signature Mummy Makeover – a customised procedure...

Manchester’s biggest sweetshop gets new boss for 50th birthday

Nick Edwards has taken over at confectionery wholesaler Hancocks in Gorton and will be heading up a team of ten sweet experts. The store, which...

Investigation launched into a stabbing at Alexandra Road retail park

An investigation is underway after a 19-year-old man was stabbed at Alexandra Road retail park yesterday afternoon. The victim was taken to hospital with serious...

More News

F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025: Report, result, highlights as Norris savours ‘stressful’ win

Lando Norris praised McLaren's "amazing car" after overcoming unpredictable conditions to beat reigning champion Max Verstappen and win the F1 Australian Grand Prix 2025...

Cadillac to join Formula 1 grid as 11th team in 2026

General Motors (GM) has officially gained approval to join Formula 1 in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the US automotive giant. The team will...

India vs Australia: Preview, expected lineups, how to watch on TV and prediction for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

India vs Australia: The State of Play India will be targeting a third consecutive appearance in the final when they face Australia in the first...