The Snooker Players Championship is a professional ranking snooker tournament. It took place in Wolverhampton from 7-13 Feb 2022. 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 battled back from falling behind 61-0 to win the frame with an impressive break of 71. Zhao won the match with four consecutive top runs and secured his third win 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 successor apparent to the current number one in the world.
John Higgins' defence of title
John Higgins' defense of the title for snooker players champion was a triumphant one. After reaching the semi-finals in the 2009 UK Championship, the Irishman won the final by beating Mark Williams 10-9. Higgins needed to rally from behind to win, but he managed to hit four century breaks during the decider to secure the title. This was his third consecutive win at the competition. It was also the first victory for Higgins in three years.
It was an impressive performance by the Irishman. After winning the first frame on colors, he won seven more frames and was leading 8-3 after three frames. Then, Higgins fired an 84-break to take the lead again. 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 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 victory in Sheffield has re-established his world number one ranking and confirmed his status as one of the greatest snooker players of all time. He is now tied with Stephen Hendry on seven world titles and will now look to win a supplementary world title next year.
O'Sullivan dominated the early part of the match, but Fu had a chance to make a break amongst the balls. O'Sullivan extended O'Sullivan's lead after Fu missed his shot. Fu lost momentum in the first frame. O'Sullivan punished him with a break to 105.
Shaun Murphy's chances for reaching final
Since his professional debut, Shaun Murphy has been a frequent contender for the snooker professionals championship. Murphy's success in the tournament was not always smooth as he suffered injuries in recent years. He underwent gastric Sleeve surgery and was recently divorced. He also has back and neck problems.
Murphy has a good record in the World Championship, reaching four finals and winning his first title in 2005. Murphy had a difficult year last year. He reached the Sheffield finals last year, which helped him save his ranking. However, he has been struggling with the current season. He had poor results. However, he may have his eye on the final this time as he has shown good form at the Crucible.