The Snooker Players Championship consists of a professional ranking snooker competition. It took place in Wolverhampton from 7-13 Feb 2022. We will be looking at Zhao's form, Shaun Murphy’s chances for reaching the final and John Higgins’ defence of his title.
Zhao's form
Zhao's form at the snooker players championship was a definite step up from his BildBet German Masters victory last January. He defeated Jamie Clarke in the first round and lost to Chris Wakelin during the second round. Zhao, after falling behind 61-0, won the frame in the fifth with a break number 71. Zhao then won the match by winning the match with four straight top runs, his third victory of this season.
Zhao Xintong's form at the Snooker Players Championship is an indication of his potential to become 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 of the current world number one.
John Higgins defends the title
John Higgins was victorious in his defense of the title of champion snooker player. Mark Williams was defeated 10-9. The Irishman beat Higgins to win the final after reaching the semi-finals at the 2009 UK Championship. Higgins had a tough task, having to come back from behind to win the final. But he was able to score four century breaks in deciding the title. He won the title for the third time in succession, and it was the first time he had done so three times.
The Irishman performed a masterclass. After winning the colours frame, he went on to win seven more frames. He led by eight points after three frames. Higgins responded with an 84 break to take the lead once more. 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, a major British snooker player, has returned to great form at the Snooker Players Championship. His two-day victory at Sheffield has secured his world number-one ranking and made him one of the greatest snooker player of all time. 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 took the lead in the initial part of the match. Fu, however, had a chance at making a break with the balls. O'Sullivan extended O'Sullivan's lead after Fu missed his shot. Fu did not build momentum after the opening frame. O'Sullivan punished Fu with a break in the final frame of 105.
Shaun Murphy's chances of reaching final
Since his professional debut, Shaun Murphy has been a frequent contender for the snooker professionals championship. Murphy's rise to prominence in the tournament was not without challenges. He has also suffered from injuries over the years. He underwent gastric Sleeve surgery and was recently divorced. He also has back and neck problems.
Murphy has a strong record in the World Championship. He reached four finals, and won his first title in 2005. Murphy had a difficult year last year. He was able to reach the Sheffield final, saving his ranking. However, he is struggling in the current season and has had poor results. He has displayed good form at Crucible and may be aiming for the final.