Mark Selby triumphed over Judd Trump to lift the Champion of Champions title for the first time in his illustrious career, capping off an enthralling match with a 10-5 victory. The 42-year-old former world champion played before a raucous home crowd at Leicester's Mattioli Arena, and his trademark grit shone through as he navigated a grueling safety battle with the formidable Trump.
Trump, widely regarded as the best player in the sport, made a bright start and dominated early proceedings, taking a 3-1 lead with two stunning century breaks. However, Selby refused to be intimidated, displaying unwavering determination and composure as he ground down his rival with lengthy defensive frames.
The turning point came in frame ten, where Trump's frustration boiled over as the pair engaged in a grueling 25-minute battle over the last red ball. Despite Trump's persistence, Selby eventually took charge, utilizing his trademark patience to wear down his opponent and secure victory.
Selby then produced a scintillating display of snooker, hitting a majestic 138 break that left Trump reeling. Over the next several frames, the 42-year-old Englishman went on an unstoppable run, compiling nine centuries in succession to seal a decisive 10-5 win.
Trump, visibly distraught, acknowledged his opponent's superiority, stating, "Mark was the best player all week and he thoroughly deserved to win." Trump's struggles with the cue were well-documented throughout the match, and it seemed that this particular piece of equipment had done him in ultimately.
Trump, widely regarded as the best player in the sport, made a bright start and dominated early proceedings, taking a 3-1 lead with two stunning century breaks. However, Selby refused to be intimidated, displaying unwavering determination and composure as he ground down his rival with lengthy defensive frames.
The turning point came in frame ten, where Trump's frustration boiled over as the pair engaged in a grueling 25-minute battle over the last red ball. Despite Trump's persistence, Selby eventually took charge, utilizing his trademark patience to wear down his opponent and secure victory.
Selby then produced a scintillating display of snooker, hitting a majestic 138 break that left Trump reeling. Over the next several frames, the 42-year-old Englishman went on an unstoppable run, compiling nine centuries in succession to seal a decisive 10-5 win.
Trump, visibly distraught, acknowledged his opponent's superiority, stating, "Mark was the best player all week and he thoroughly deserved to win." Trump's struggles with the cue were well-documented throughout the match, and it seemed that this particular piece of equipment had done him in ultimately.
I don't get why people say Trump got destroyed by Selby. The guy was on fire! 138 break is insane, right? 
I mean, Trump's century breaks were crazy too, but Selby just kept his cool and wore him down. It was like he knew a secret no one else did 
. And yeah, Trump had those issues with the cue, but that's just part of the game, you know? Can't blame him for that. 
Plus, Selby's age is actually an advantage - experience counts for something! 
The crowd loved it too, and he got that home crowd energy going for him. Not many players can say they're the Champion of Champions at 42... what a legend! 
. The way he dug deep & won't back down from a tough opponent is exactly what's needed in today's fast-paced world. It's refreshing to see an athlete who can perform under pressure, just like how we need individuals who can handle stress & uncertainty in our daily lives 
. Trump's reaction after losing was pretty telling - he acknowledged Selby's superiority & that's all you can ask for from a competitor 
. Can't help but wonder if his struggles with the cue were due to something more than just the match itself 
?
I mean, I know Judd Trump's an amazing player, but the way Selby shut him down was just mental! 
That safety battle in frame 10 was like a chess match, both players were so focused. And when Selby hit that 138 break, I was literally on the edge of my seat... 
Nine centuries in a row? Unbelievable! 
. All respect to Judd, but Mark Selby's got some serious mojo right now 
. Trump's skills are undoubtedly world-class, but he just couldn't cope with the pressure 
. Can't help but think that Selby's experience and composure played a big role in his win 
. Either way, what a match to watch! 
! i mean, trump is like a snooker god or something 
. that 138 break tho? insane! 
. selby just played so steady and smart, like he knew exactly what to do each time 
. anyway, happy for selby and all that! 
. And Selby was like butter, just gliding over him with those long frames...I love how he didn't back down even when Trump was putting the pressure on! That grit and composure are what set him apart from everyone else. Plus, that 138 break? Insane!