Trump Beats Hawkins to Win Second UK Championship Crown
Judd Trump claimed his second UK Championship title with a gripping 10-8 victory over Barry Hawkins at the Barbican in York. This victory further cemented Trump’s legacy as one of snooker’s modern greats, bringing his ranking titles to 30, a tally surpassed only by legends Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, and John Higgins.
A Hard-Fought Battle
The match saw Trump endure a fierce fightback from Hawkins, who trailed 9-6 but clawed back to 9-8, nearly forcing a deciding frame. Hawkins, 45, sought his first Triple Crown title but narrowly missed the opportunity in the tense 18th frame.
“Every shot I was snookered, and I thought, ‘this could be the worst loss of all time,'” Trump admitted after his victory. The world number one ultimately prevailed, claiming the £250,000 top prize and solidifying his position at the top of the rankings.
Hawkins’ Incredible Run
Hawkins, who began his final barely 12 hours after a grueling semi-final win over Mark Allen, displayed resilience throughout the tournament. His journey included remarkable victories over defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, David Gilbert, and Shaun Murphy.
Reflecting on his performance, Hawkins said:
“I’m still fighting. Days like this make it worthwhile. Losing to the best player in the world is no disgrace.”
Despite falling short, Hawkins’ run in York ensured his return to the top 16 and a spot at the Masters.
Trump’s Stellar Season
This season has been remarkable for Trump, with three tournament victories, including the Saudi Arabia Masters, and two other final appearances. His earnings for the season have already exceeded £1 million, highlighting his consistency and dominance in the sport.
“It’s still a long way to go from where I want to be in my career,” Trump remarked. With five Triple Crown titles, including two UK Championships, two Masters, and a World Championship, Trump remains hungry for more success as he aims to rank among snooker’s all-time greats.
Key Highlights from the Match
- Trump compiled a stunning break of 133, his highest of the tournament.
- Hawkins fought valiantly, with breaks of 116, 75, and 82, but crucial missed opportunities proved costly.
- Trump’s strategic play and resilience ultimately secured the hard-fought victory.
The win at the UK Championship further solidifies Judd Trump’s reputation as one of the best players in snooker history.
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