Gary Wilson shocked the snooker world by defeating the legendary Ronnie O’Sullivan 5-2 in the Xi’an Grand Prix quarter-finals. Wilson came out swinging from the get-go, showcasing his skills with impressive breaks of 74, 101, and 79 to take a commanding 3-0 lead. However, O’Sullivan managed to claw his way back into the match, winning the fourth and fifth frames to narrow the gap to 3-2.
In a stunning turn of events, Wilson, a 40-year-old Englishman, regained his momentum with a remarkable 120 break in the sixth frame. Despite a nail-biting seventh frame, Wilson held his nerve and secured his spot in the semi-finals. Reflecting on his victory, Wilson emphasized the importance of mental strength when facing a player of O’Sullivan’s caliber. He acknowledged the mind games that O’Sullivan plays and stressed the need to block out distractions and focus on one’s own game. Wilson’s confidence in his abilities shone through, as he expressed belief in his capability to challenge any opponent on the table.
Looking ahead, Wilson is set to face former world champion Shaun Murphy in the semi-finals, who secured his spot by defeating home favorite Ding Junhui 5-3. Murphy’s impressive runs of 77, 66, 121, and 94 have positioned him as a strong contender for the title. The other semi-final match will feature an all-Welsh showdown between Mark Williams and Daniel Wells, following their victories over Lyu Haotian and Liam Pullen respectively. Williams, a three-time world champion, faced a tough battle in his 5-4 win, while Wells advanced with a 5-2 victory over Pullen, inching closer to his first professional final appearance.
As the tournament progresses, the competition is heating up, with players vying for a chance to etch their names in snooker history. The Xi’an Grand Prix has delivered thrilling matches and unexpected outcomes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. With each player showcasing their skills and determination, the semi-finals promise to be a showdown of talent and tenacity. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds on the green baize, with the quest for the title reaching its climax.
