World number one Judd Trump delivered an incredible comeback at the UK Championship, overcoming a 3-1 deficit to defeat three-time champion Neil Robertson 6-3. This victory not only secured Trump’s spot in the last 16 but also highlighted his resilience under challenging conditions at York Barbican.
A Match Defined by Momentum Swings
Neil Robertson appeared in control early on, even coming close to a commanding 4-1 lead. However, a missed penultimate ball marked a dramatic turning point, allowing Trump to seize the momentum. Breaks of 73, 126, and 67 showcased Trump’s brilliance as he powered through five consecutive frames to win the match.
Trump will now face three-time UK champion John Higgins in the next round, while Robertson, ranked 18th in the world, exits after navigating through tough qualifying rounds.
Players Criticize Table Conditions
Both Trump and Robertson voiced frustrations about the playing conditions. Trump described the table as “very heavy,” while Robertson called it “unplayable.” The poor conditions added another layer of difficulty to an already intense match.
A spokesperson for the World Snooker Tour acknowledged the issues, attributing them to high humidity caused by recent rainfall. Despite this, Trump maintained focus and delivered a performance that he described as the best he could achieve under the circumstances.
Other Highlights from the Championship
The evening session brought more drama as Stuart Bingham staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Mark Williams 6-5, while China’s Zhang Anda recorded a maximum 147 break in his win against Lei Peifan. Earlier in the day, John Higgins cruised to a dominant 6-0 victory over He Guoqiang, showcasing his enduring class and consistency.
Looking Ahead
With Trump’s comeback setting the tone, the competition intensifies as the last 16 rounds approach. Fans eagerly await more thrilling moments, especially as Trump faces Higgins in a high-stakes clash.
External Link: Read more about the UK Championship on BBC.
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