Judd Trump won the UK Championship, ending a 13-year wait to lift the trophy and earning a £1 million bonus. Despite having to work hard for the victory, Trump beat Barry Hawkins 10-8 in front of 1,200 fans. This win marks his 30th ranking tournament title and his fifth Triple Crown title, bringing him level with the late Alex Higgins. Trump’s dominance in snooker has been on display this season, winning more than £1 million in prize money from just ten events since the summer.
Barry Hawkins, who faced Trump in the final, had a challenging week leading up to the match. Despite a disrupted sleep schedule and fatigue from a previous semi-final win, Hawkins put up a commendable fight in the final. He managed to close the gap to one frame multiple times, but Trump’s consistency and composure ultimately secured him the victory. Hawkins’s Triple Crown misery continues, with this final loss adding to previous defeats in other major tournaments. He was also drawn earlier to face Trump in the first round of the Masters at Ally Pally next month.
Trump’s parents were present in North Yorkshire to witness his latest triumph, adding an emotional element to his victory. The world No.1’s performance solidifies his status as the best snooker player in the world at the moment, surpassing the likes of reigning world champion Kyren Wilson and legendary cueist Ronnie O’Sullivan. Trump’s tenacity on the table was evident throughout the final, particularly with his string of century breaks during the tournament. His break of 133 in frame 15 was his highest of the tournament.
Hawkins gave an impressive account of himself during the final, showcasing his skills with a remarkable 116 break in frame two and a superb 70 break in frame four. Despite facing challenges like disrupted sleep and nerves, Hawkins remained competitive throughout the match. However, Trump’s consistency and ability to respond to Hawkins’s advances kept him ahead in the final. Trump’s break of 133 in frame 15 was a standout moment in the final, further extending his lead over Hawkins.
The final moments of the match were tense, with Hawkins needing two snookers to stay in the game. However, Trump’s composure and precision allowed him to secure the victory and avoid a final-frame decider. This win adds to Trump’s impressive record and reaffirms his position as one of the best snooker players in the world. Despite the challenges faced by both players leading up to the final, they delivered an exciting and competitive match for fans at the Barbican. Trump’s triumph at the UK Championship demonstrates his skill, determination, and dominance in the world of snooker.
