The Snooker Players Championship consists of a professional ranking snooker competition. It was held at Aldersley Leisure Village Wolverhampton, England from 7-13 Februar 2022. In this article, we'll examine Zhao's form, Shaun Murphy's chances of reaching the final and John Higgins' defence of his title.
Zhao's form
Zhao's performance at this snooker player championship was a marked improvement on Zhao's BildBet German Masters triumph last January. He beat Jamie Clarke, 4-1, in the opening round. However, he lost to Chris Wakelin in round 2. In the fifth frame, Zhao fought back after falling behind 61-0 to take the frame with a break of 71. Zhao then won the match by winning the match with four straight top runs, his third victory of this season.
Zhao Xintong is a good indication of his potential as a world champion. O'Sullivan will be O'Sullivan's opponent in the final. O'Sullivan has been the sport's king for so many years. Zhao is the heir obvious to the title of current world number 1.
John Higgins' defence of title
John Higgins won the defence of the title as champion snooker players. Mark Williams defeated Higgins 10-9. He reached the semi finals in 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. This was Higgins' third consecutive win in the competition, and he was first to win the title 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 scored an 84break to take the lead. Robertson got a chance after Higgins failed to hit a tricky yellow in his next frame on the baulk cushions.
Ronnie O'Sullivan's form
Ronnie O'Sullivan has restored himself as a major British sport, and has been performing well at the Snooker Players Championship. His two-day win in Sheffield has helped him regain his world number 1 ranking and established his status as one the most renowned snooker players. He is now tied on seven world titles with Stephen Hendry. He will now be trying to win a second world title next season.
O'Sullivan led for most of the match. Fu was allowed to take a break in between the balls. O'Sullivan extended O'Sullivan's lead, but Fu missed his plan. Fu was unable to gain momentum after a tight opening frame. O'Sullivan then punished him with a break at 105.
Chances of Shaun Murphy reaching the final
Shaun Murphy has been a regular contender for the snooker players championship since he first made it to the professional circuit. Murphy's success at the tournament wasn't always easy. He suffered several injuries in recent years. He underwent gastric Sleeve surgery and was recently divorced. He has also been affected by neck and back problems.
Murphy has a great record in the World Championship. In 2005, he reached four finals. However, he had a poor year last season and has had difficulty recovering. He reached the Sheffield finals last year, which helped him save his ranking. However, he is struggling in the current season and has had poor results. But, he could be in the final as he has been showing good form at Crucible.