The Snooker Players Championship consists of a professional ranking snooker competition. It took place in Wolverhampton from 7-13 Feb 2022. We will be looking at Zhao's form, Shaun Murphy’s chances for reaching the final and John Higgins’ defence 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 beat Jamie Clarke 4-1 in the first round but lost to Chris Wakelin in the second round. Zhao battled back from falling behind 61-0 to win the frame with an impressive break of 71. Zhao then won the match, scoring four straight top runs to take the frame with a break of 71.
Zhao Xintong is a good indication of his potential as a world champion. O'Sullivan, the current world champion of the sport, will be his opponent in the final. Zhao is the heir obvious to the title of current world number 1.
John Higgins' defence of title
John Higgins won the defence of the title as champion snooker players. The final was won by Mark Williams, an Irishman who reached the semi-finals of the 2009 UK Championship. 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. This was his third consecutive win at the competition. It was also the first victory for Higgins in three years.
The Irishman's performance was outstanding. After winning the colours frame, he went on to win seven more frames. He led by eight points after three frames. Higgins made an 84-break to regain the lead. 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 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 currently tied with Stephen Hendry in seven world titles. He will now try to win a supplementary World title next year.
O'Sullivan won the first part of the match but Fu was able to break through 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 at reaching final
Since his debut on the professional circuit, Shaun Murphy has been a consistent contender for the snooker player championship. Murphy's success at the tournament wasn't always easy. He suffered several injuries in recent years. He was recently divorced and underwent gastric surgery. 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. However, he had a poor year last season and has had difficulty recovering. He managed to reach the final in Sheffield last year and save his ranking. However, he has been struggling with the current season. He had poor results. He has displayed good form at Crucible and may be aiming for the final.