The Snooker Players Championship, a tournament for professional snooker players, is held annually. It took place in Wolverhampton from 7-13 Feb 2022. In this article we will discuss Zhao's form and Shaun Murphy’s chances to reach the final. We also examine John Higgins’ defense of his title.
Zhao's Formula
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 first round but lost to Chris Wakelin in the second round. Zhao battled back from falling behind 61-0 to win the frame with an impressive break of 71. He then ran out with four straight top runs to win the match and secure his third victory of the season.
Zhao Xintong’s form at Snooker Players Championship is a sign of his potential to be a global champion. O'Sullivan, who has been the champion of the sport for so many decades, will face him in the final. Zhao is the heir apparent to the current world number one.
John Higgins defends the 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 to come from behind to win the final but hit four century breaks in the decider to clinch the title. This was his third consecutive win at the competition. It was also the first victory for Higgins in three years.
The Irishman's performance was outstanding. After winning the first frame on colors, he won seven more frames and was leading 8-3 after three frames. Higgins responded with an 84 break to take the lead once more. 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 once again established himself as a leading British sport. He has also been in great form at this year's Snooker Players Championship. His two-day triumph in Sheffield has brought back his world number one ranking. It also confirmed his status of one of the best snooker players ever. He is currently tied with Stephen Hendry in seven world titles. He will now try to win a supplementary World title next year.
O'Sullivan won the first part of the match but Fu was able to break through the balls. Nevertheless, he missed his plant and O'Sullivan extended his lead. Fu did not build momentum after the opening frame. O'Sullivan punished Fu with a break in the final frame of 105.
Shaun Murphy's chances for reaching final
Since his first appearance on the professional circuit, Shaun Murphy is a regular participant in the snooker players champions. Murphy's rise to prominence in the tournament was not without challenges. He has also suffered from injuries over the years. He had to have gastric sleeve surgery, and he was recently divorced. He also had back and neck problems.
Murphy has a great record in the World Championship. In 2005, he reached four finals. He had a terrible year last year, and has had to overcome it. He managed to reach the final in Sheffield last year and save his ranking. However, he has been struggling again in the current season, with poor results. However, he may have his eye on the final this time as he has shown good form at the Crucible.