The Snooker Players Championship is an international professional ranking tournament. It was held from 7-13 February 2022 at Aldersley Leisure Village in Wolverhampton, England. We'll be discussing Zhao's form, Shaun Murphy’s chances of reaching final, and John Higgins' defense of his title.
Zhao's form
Zhao's form at the snooker players championship was a definite step up from his BildBet German Masters victory last January. He defeated Jamie Clarke in the first round and lost to Chris Wakelin during the second round. Zhao, who had fallen behind 61-0 in the first round, fought back to win the fifth frame with a break record of 71. Zhao won the match with four consecutive top runs and secured his third win of the season.
Zhao Xintong's form at the Snooker Players Championship is an indication of his potential to become a world 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 title
John Higgins won the defence of the title as champion snooker players. After reaching the semi-finals in the 2009 UK Championship, the Irishman won the final by beating Mark Williams 10-9. 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. He won the title for the third time in succession, and it was the first time he had done so three times.
The Irishman's performance was a masterclass. After an opening frame of colours, he won the following seven frames and led 8-3 after three frames. Higgins responded with an 84 break to take the lead once more. Robertson was then able to take the lead after Higgins missed a difficult yellow on the baulk cushion.
Ronnie O'Sullivan's form
Ronnie O'Sullivan is back as a major British player and has performed well at the 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 now tied on seven world titles with Stephen Hendry. He will now be trying to win a second world title next season.
O'Sullivan won the first part of the match but Fu was able to break through the balls. O'Sullivan increased his lead when Fu missed his plant. Fu failed to build momentum after a tension-filled opening frame. O'Sullivan reprimanded him in the last frame with a break for 105.
Shaun Murphy's chances for reaching final
Since his debut on the professional circuit, Shaun Murphy has been a consistent contender for the snooker player championship. Murphy's successes in the tournament were not always easy. In recent years, he sustained injuries. He underwent gastric Sleeve surgery and was recently divorced. He has also experienced back and neck pains.
Murphy has a strong record in the World Championship. He reached four finals, and won his first title in 2005. But Murphy was not in his best year and had to overcome a challenging season. He reached the Sheffield final last year, which saved his ranking. However, he has been struggling again in the current season, with poor results. But, he could be in the final as he has been showing good form at Crucible.