Welsh snooker legend Mark Williams secured a dramatic 17-14 victory over England's Judd Trump in the World Snooker Championship semifinals on Saturday, setting up a final clash with China' Zhao Xintong at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre.
The 50-year-old Williams, trailing 7-3 early, staged a remarkable comeback with precision breaks of 73, 84, and 62. Despite Trump's valiant efforts—including his 106th century break of the season—Williams maintained composure through tense final frames. A missed black by Trump in the decisive 31st frame allowed Williams to seal victory with a 123-clearance, becoming the oldest finalist in championship history.
"I was starting to twitch towards the end," admitted Williams, a three-time champion. "I can't believe I'm in another final—I don't know how I'm doing it."
Sunday's final pits Williams against 28-year-old Zhao Xintong, China's rising star, in a generational showdown. The matchup highlights Asia's growing influence in global snooker, with Zhao aiming to become China's second world champion after Ding Junhui's 2016 triumph.
