Kyren Wilson and John Higgins have officially advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2026 Masters tournament, showcasing their skills on a significant stage. Both players demonstrated resilience and strategic excellence to overcome their respective opponents.
Kyren Wilson’s Journey
Wilson, aged 34, has faced considerable challenges over the past few months. His cue, which he used to win the world title in May 2024, suffered severe damage during refurbishment. A six-inch piece was snapped off, an incident Wilson described as “a freak accident totally out of my control.” This situation left him feeling disheartened following an early exit at the UK Championship.
Expressing his emotional state, Wilson stated, “I’m just very lost,” after a first-round loss to Slessor. He reflected on the difficulty of that match, saying he felt close to a mental breakdown. He added, “It’s been a nightmare… I just knew I couldn’t win.” Despite his hardships, Wilson has transitioned to using a new cue and recently performed better at the Scottish Open, although he still faced elimination in the third round against Chang Bingyu.
Return to Form at the Masters
During the Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace, Wilson appeared revitalized in his first match after his struggles. “This venue can bring the best out of you,” he noted, showing gratitude for the support from fans. “I still have a lot of time in this game so hopefully I can conquer this venue for a long time.” He acknowledged the challenge of adapting to his new cue, which he has been using since the Scottish Open.
Wilson also addressed his frustrations with the previous cue, which had a ferrule and tip put on the day of his first-round match. After some emotional moments, he feels he has overcome those hurdles and is ready to face his next opponent, either Australia’s Neil Robertson or England’s Chris Wakelin.
John Higgins’ Performance
John Higgins, a seasoned player, also advanced to the quarter-finals. At 48, he continues to display remarkable skill and tenacity in high-stakes matches. His experience adds depth to the Masters competition, and he remains a formidable contender.
Next Rounds Ahead
The quarter-finals promise to deliver intense competition, with Wilson and Higgins set to face tough opponents. Fans can expect thrilling performances as both players aim for a spot in the finals. Supporters are eager to see if Wilson can harness his newfound confidence and if Higgins will leverage his experience to secure a victory.
- Event: 2026 Masters Tournament
- Players: Kyren Wilson (34), John Higgins (48)
- Recent Challenges: Cue damage for Wilson
- Next Potential Opponents: Neil Robertson, Chris Wakelin
The excitement surrounding this year’s Masters continues to build, with Wilson and Higgins leading the charge into the quarter-finals. The upcoming matches are highly anticipated by fans and players alike.
