Snookers Champion Trump Claims Second UK Championship Title After Thrilling Win Over Hawkins
Judd Trump clinched his second UK Championship crown in a dramatic 10-8 victory over Barry Hawkins at the York Barbican, proving once again why he’s considered one of snooker’s all-time greats. The triumph, his 30th career ranking title, places him in the company of legends like Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stephen Hendry, and John Higgins—only they have more ranking wins to their names.
The final was anything but straightforward. Trump, the current world number one, seemed to have the match under control at 9-6, only for Hawkins to claw his way back to 9-8 with two impressive frames. Hawkins even came agonizingly close to forcing a decider, needing two snookers in the final frame. But Trump, with his trademark calm under pressure, held on to secure the win.
“It was such a hard game,” Trump admitted afterward. “Barry made it so tough. At 9-8, I wasn’t enjoying myself at all. Every shot felt like it could go wrong. I just wanted it to be over. It’s pure relief more than anything.”
A Final Full of Twists and Turns
From the start, the match promised drama. Trump entered Sunday evening’s final session with a 5-3 lead, extending it to 7-5 before the mid-session interval thanks to some steady half-century breaks. But Hawkins, chasing his first-ever Triple Crown title, wasn’t about to roll over. The 45-year-old won the next frame to close the gap to 7-6 and looked poised to draw level at 7-7. However, a positional error opened the door for Trump, who responded in style with a sublime 133 break—his highest of the tournament.
Trump appeared to have the title within reach at 9-6, but Hawkins had other ideas. With gutsy runs of 75 and 82, the veteran clawed his way back into contention, bringing the score to 9-8. In the nail-biting 18th frame, Hawkins narrowly missed key opportunities, including a crucial pot that could have completely turned the match around. Trump seized his chance, finally crossing the finish line to claim the title.
Snookers Championship Trump’s Legacy Continues to Grow
This victory adds another chapter to Trump’s already stellar career. It’s been 13 years since he first lifted the UK Championship trophy in 2011, and this latest win brings his total Triple Crown tally to five. He now shares that number with the legendary Alex Higgins, though he still trails Ronnie O’Sullivan’s jaw-dropping 23 Triple Crown titles.
Trump’s success this season has been nothing short of remarkable. Having already won the Saudi Arabia Masters and reached two other finals, he’s cemented his position at the top of the snooker world. His earnings this season alone have surpassed £1 million—a testament to his consistency and dominance.
Yet for Trump, it’s about more than just numbers. “I’ve got so much more I want to achieve,” he said. “Every win is special, but I’m just focusing on taking things one event at a time. If I keep performing like this, the records will take care of themselves.”
Hawkins’ Heroic Run Ends in Heartbreak
For Barry Hawkins, the runner-up spot was both a significant achievement and a painful reminder of how close he came to his first Triple Crown title. Having started his campaign in the qualifiers, Hawkins overcame the odds to defeat some of snooker’s biggest names, including defending champion Ronnie O’Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, and Mark Allen.
“Days like this make it all worthwhile,” Hawkins said after the match. “If someone had told me at the start of the tournament that I’d make the final, I’d have taken it. But once you’re there, you want to win. Losing to Judd, the best player in the world right now, is no shame.”
Hawkins acknowledged that missed chances, especially early in the match, ultimately cost him. “There were a few shots I should have made, especially in the first session,” he admitted. “At 9-8, I thought I might have him, but it wasn’t to be. He’s just so clinical.”
Despite the disappointment, Hawkins’ performance in York has earned him a place back in the top 16 and a spot at the Masters. At 45, his hunger for success remains undiminished, and his ability to push Trump to the limit shows he still has plenty left in the tank.
Source: Trump wins second UK Championship
A Match to Remember
This UK Championship final will go down as one of the most thrilling in recent memory. It was a match of contrasts: Trump’s precision and flair against Hawkins’ grit and determination. The swings in momentum kept fans on the edge of their seats, and the quality of play from both players was exceptional.
For Trump, this win is yet another milestone in a career that continues to go from strength to strength. His ability to perform under pressure, even when the stakes are sky-high, sets him apart. And while he’s already achieved so much, it’s clear that he’s far from done. “I just want to keep winning,” he said. “There’s so much more I want to do in this game.”
As for Hawkins, his journey to the final is a testament to his resilience and skill. While he fell just short, his performance in York proves he can still compete with the best. “I’ll be back,” he said with a smile. “There’s more to come from me, for sure.”
Building Momentum: What’s Next for Trump and Hawkins After the UK Championship?
As the dust settles on this year’s UK Championship, the focus now shifts to the upcoming Masters. For Trump, it’s another opportunity to add to his growing legacy. For Hawkins, it’s a chance to build on his strong performance and finally break through at the highest level.
One thing is certain: after a final like this, snooker fans can’t wait to see what’s next.
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