Gary Wilson Storms Into Wuhan Open Final With Statement Win Over Mark Allen
Gary Wilson produced a stunning comeback to beat former Masters and UK Champion Mark Allen 6-2 in the semi-finals of the Wuhan Open, securing his place in the final and confirming a return to snooker’s top 16. With the £63,000 runner-up prize already in the bag, Wilson is now guaranteed to leapfrog Shaun Murphy in the world rankings.
The 40-year-old, known as the “Tyneside Terror,” has had an impressive run in Wuhan, having already seen off a star-studded lineup including world number one Judd Trump, four-time World Champion John Higgins, and Masters champion Murphy. His victory over Allen marks five consecutive frames won after trailing 2-1, showcasing his resilience and composure under pressure.
Wilson made a strong start with a break of 77, but Allen hit back with a sublime 135 and a 66 to lead 2-1. Wilson leveled at 2-2 before dominating the second half of the match with breaks of 113, 78, and 70. A tactical clearance in the eighth, including a superb shot to develop the green, sealed the match and left Allen needing snookers he couldn’t find.
Wilson now faces defending champion Xiao Guodong in what promises to be an emotional and competitive final. Both men share parallel career arcs — Wilson claimed his first ranking title in 2023 after 18 years as a pro and defended it the following season, while Xiao ended a 17-year wait for his maiden title by winning in Wuhan last year.
Reflecting on his run, Wilson said: “It’s not about who you beat, it’s about how you play. I’ve learned to focus on the table, not the opponent. Now, I’ve got a great chance to win a big event outside the UK.”
