John Higgins Faces Joe O’Connor in 2025 World Open Final
Here is my rewrite of the snooker article in my own words:
The 2025 World Open snooker tournament is reaching its thrilling conclusion in Yushan, China. In an exciting twist, the final will feature a new name on the trophy this year, as defending champion Judd Trump was surprisingly knocked out in the last-32 by Joe O'Connor.
The first semi-final saw a tense battle between Scottish snooker legend John Higgins and Englishman Zak Surety. Higgins displayed his renowned resilience, fighting back from a 3-1 deficit to eventually overcome Surety 6-5 in a nail-biting finish. The final frame was poised at 41-41 before Higgins held his nerve to clinch victory.
In the other semi-final, Joe O'Connor continued his giant-killing run by defeating Ali Carter 6-3. The 27-year-old from Leicester has been in sensational form over the past fortnight, claiming the scalps of reigning World Champion Kyren Wilson, UK Champion and world no.1 Judd Trump, and Masters Champion Shaun Murphy. O'Connor's fearless potting and confident all-round game have made him the tournament's surprise package.
So the stage is set for a mouth-watering final between the vastly experienced Higgins, chasing a 31st ranking title, and the in-form O'Connor who is aiming to cap a phenomenal breakthrough tournament with the biggest title of his fledgling career. At stake is the top prize of £175,000 from the event's total prize fund of £825,000.
The best-of-19 final starts at 6am GMT on Sunday and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 3, with streaming also available on Discovery+. Snooker fans will be eager to see if the unheralded O'Connor can complete a remarkable triumph against one of the sport's all-time greats.
In other news, Ronnie O'Sullivan has announced he will make his return to competition at next week's World Grand Prix in Hong Kong. The seven-time World Champion said he is "really looking forward" to playing again after a short break and is "excited to see you all."
Key Takeaway:
The 2025 World Open final will be contested between snooker icon John Higgins and surprise package Joe O'Connor. Higgins showed his famed determination to come through a tough semi-final, while O'Connor has claimed a series of big-name scalps en route to his first ranking final. With £175,000 on the line for the winner, an intriguing showdown awaits.
