Shaun Murphy triumphed over Gary Wilson with a score of 6-4 at the Xi’an Grand Prix. This victory secured Murphy’s position in his second consecutive ranking final. He is set to face Mark Williams, who at 50 years old, aims to break the record for the oldest ranking event winner, a title held by the late Ray Reardon since 1982.
Murphy’s Remarkable Comeback
During the semi-final, Murphy demonstrated his resilience by overcoming a 3-1 deficit. He showcased impressive skill, recording three breaks of over 130. The match culminated in a stunning finish with a break of 141 in the decisive frame.
Triumphant Streak
Murphy, now 42, marked his recent success following his inaugural British Open victory in September. He expressed a sense of confidence, stating, “I felt I hadn’t done that much wrong at 3-1 down.” Moreover, he noted a winning streak of 13 matches, highlighting his current form.
Upcoming Final Against a Snooker Legend
Looking ahead, Murphy acknowledges the challenge posed by Williams. “I have got one of the best of all time in my way and he will give me nothing,” he remarked. The two players share a rich history of competitive matches, and Murphy anticipates another thrilling encounter.
- Event: Xi’an Grand Prix
- Match Result: Shaun Murphy 6 – 4 Gary Wilson
- Next Opponent: Mark Williams
- Williams’ Age: 50 years
- Record: Oldest ranking event winner since 1982
- Murphy’s Breaks: Three 130-plus breaks including a 141 in the final frame
- Winning Streak: 13 consecutive matches
- Last Major Win: British Open, September
As both players prepare for the final, fans eagerly await the clash between two giants of the sport. This match will not only determine the champion of the Xi’an Grand Prix but may also etch another achievement into snooker history.
