In a breathtaking display of skill and nerve, Chinese snooker sensation Wu Yize secured his place in the World Snooker Championship final on Saturday, May 2, after a dramatic 17-16 victory over Northern Ireland's Mark Allen. The semifinal clash at Sheffield's Crucible Theatre will be remembered as an instant classic, showcasing the very best of the sport.
The match was a rollercoaster from start to finish, with the score level an astonishing ten times. The tension reached its peak in frame 14, which stretched for over 100 minutes – a new record for the longest frame in Crucible history. This marathon battle underscored the fine margins separating the two competitors.
Trailing 16-14 with just two frames left, the 22-year-old Wu displayed remarkable composure. A decisive break of 67 in the 31st frame kept his dream alive, setting the stage for a nail-biting conclusion. In the decisive 32nd frame, Wu built a lead with a 52-point break before a missed red gave Allen a golden opportunity. Allen expertly potted a long pink and positioned himself perfectly on the black, seemingly destined for his first world final. Yet, it was Wu who ultimately held firm under immense pressure to clinch the final frame and the match.
With this victory, Wu Yize becomes only the third player from China to ever reach the final of snooker's most prestigious tournament. His historic run this year captivates fans across Asia and the world, highlighting the growing depth of talent in the sport. All eyes will now be on the young star as he prepares for the championship match.
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Wu Yize edges Mark Allen, advances to World Snooker Championship final
cgtn.com
