Judd Trump Blames Strange Balls for Players Championship Final Defeat
Snooker star Judd Trump recently raised questions about the quality of balls used during his defeat to Kyren Wilson in the Players Championship final. Trump, who missed out on the £150,000 top prize, complained that the balls were playing "very, very strange" and not allowing him to display his typically free-flowing style.
Both Trump and Wilson expressed their frustrations to the referee during the tightly contested match, which saw them tied at 4-4 at the interval. Despite taking the ninth frame, Trump ultimately succumbed to Wilson's strong play, with the world champion winning the next four frames to secure his fourth ranking title of the season.
Trump, who has won three events this term, including two ranking titles, felt the unusual behavior of the balls hindered both players from showcasing their best snooker. He described the balls as being very light and taking off "like a ping-pong ball," making it difficult to maintain the high standard of play expected in the final.
Wilson's victory against Trump, a two-time winner of the Players Championship, has boosted his confidence heading into the World Championship. Trump, known for setting the record for most ranking titles in a single season (six) in 2019-20, acknowledged Wilson's achievement and expressed his eagerness for their next encounter.
With the World Championship set to begin on April 19, both Trump and Wilson are among the favorites to lift the trophy. However, they will face stiff competition from seven-time winner Ronnie O'Sullivan, who is expected to make his return to the table after missing the Players Championship and Tour Championship due to medical reasons.
Key Takeaway:
Judd Trump's loss to Kyren Wilson in the Players Championship final was marred by his concerns over the quality of the snooker balls, which he felt were playing unusually and preventing both players from performing at their best. Despite the setback, Trump remains focused on the upcoming World Championship, where he, along with Wilson and Ronnie O'Sullivan, will be among the top contenders for the prestigious title.
