The Snooker Players Championship consists of a professional ranking snooker competition. It took place at Aldersley Leisure Village, Wolverhampton (England) from 7-13 February 2022. We'll be discussing Zhao's form, Shaun Murphy’s chances of reaching final, and John Higgins' defense of his title.
Zhao's Formula
Zhao's performance at last January's BildBet German Masters was a significant improvement over Zhao. In the first round, he beat Jamie Clarke by 4-1 but fell to Chris Wakelin the second round. Zhao, after falling behind 61-0, won the frame in the fifth with a break number 71. Zhao won the match with four consecutive top runs and secured his third win of the season.
Zhao Xintong is a good indication of his potential as a world champion. He will face O'Sullivan in the final, who has been the king of the sport for so long. Zhao is the heir apparent to the current world number one.
John Higgins defends title
John Higgins won the defence of the title as champion snooker players. After reaching the semi-finals in the 2009 UK Championship, the Irishman won the final by beating Mark Williams 10-9. Higgins had to come from behind to win the final but hit four century breaks in the decider to clinch the title. This was Higgins' third consecutive win in the competition, and he was first to win the title three times.
The Irishman performed a masterclass. After an opening frame of colours, he won the following seven frames and led 8-3 after three frames. Higgins made an 84-break to regain the lead. Higgins then missed a tricky yellow in the next frame on the baulk cushion, giving Robertson a chance.
Ronnie O'Sullivan's form
Ronnie O'Sullivan has restored himself as a major British sport, and has been performing well at the Snooker Players Championship. His two-day win in Sheffield has helped him regain his world number 1 ranking and established his status as one the most renowned snooker players. He is now tied with Stephen Hendry on seven world titles and will now look to win a supplementary world title next year.
O'Sullivan led for most of the match. Fu was allowed to take a break in between the balls. Nevertheless, he missed his plant and O'Sullivan extended his lead. Fu failed to build momentum after a tension-filled opening frame. O'Sullivan reprimanded him in the last frame with a break for 105.
Shaun Murphy's chances to reach final
Since his entry to the professional circuit, Shaun Murphy was a regular competitor in the snooker tournament players championship. Murphy's success in the tournament was not always smooth as he suffered injuries in recent years. He underwent gastric Sleeve surgery and was recently divorced. He also has back and neck problems.
Murphy has a great record in the World Championship. In 2005, he reached four finals. But he was in for a bad year last year and has had to overcome a tough season. He made it to the Sheffield final and saved his ranking. He has struggled again this season with his results. He may be eyeing the final, however, as he showed good form at Crucible.