Wu’s win came with a £500,000 prize, while Chang Bingyu, despite not participating in the main tournament, earned £172,000 after impressively scoring a 147 maximum break during qualifying.

With this championship victory, Wu Yize ascended to number four in the world snooker rankings. Judd Trump continues to hold the top spot, while Zhao Xintong is ranked third.

The final match was notable for its intensity, lasting all 35 frames — a rarity in modern snooker. Wu expressed his emotional journey, stating, “My mum wasn’t in very good health condition for a long time. She sacrificed everything for me.”

Meanwhile, Chang Bingyu’s recent past includes a ban of 20 months due to a match-fixing scandal. Officials noted that Chang was only 20 years old when the incident occurred.

Looking ahead, players will have opportunities to qualify for the World Snooker Tour through Q School tournaments scheduled from May 13 to May 31, 2026. This event is crucial for emerging talents aiming to make their mark on professional snooker.

The post Snooker: Wu Yize Wins World Championship appeared first on News-UK.

Higgins has been a mainstay in the sport since 1996, maintaining a seed at every World Championship. However, he expressed concerns about his ranking and the possibility of having to qualify for major tournaments. He mentioned, “I don’t think I can see myself having to qualify for big events.” This sentiment underscores his struggle with the idea of stepping back from competitive play.

The Crucible Theatre, which has hosted the World Championship since its inception, will continue to do so until 2045, thanks to an extended agreement. Yet, Higgins doubts he will return after renovations are set to begin post-2028. His long-standing connection to this venue adds emotional weight to his potential departure.

In his match against Murphy, Higgins displayed his trademark resilience. Murphy described the encounter as “exhausting yet exhilarating,” highlighting Higgins’ ability to elevate his game even under pressure. This performance reflects why he is considered one of snooker’s legends.

As Higgins celebrates his birthday this month, he faces a pivotal moment in his career. He has indicated that if his ranking falls outside the top 16, he may retire from professional play. The implications of such a decision weigh heavily on him as he contemplates what lies ahead.

Higgins’ legacy in snooker is undeniable, having secured numerous titles and accolades throughout his three-decade career. His potential retirement would mark the end of an era for fans and fellow competitors alike.

The snooker community will be watching closely as Higgins navigates these challenging decisions. His next steps could shape not only his future but also influence the sport itself.

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