Wu Yize Claims First Ranking Title with Stunning Victory over John Higgins in International Championship Final
Wu Yize, the young Chinese snooker star, made history by defeating the legendary John Higgins 10-6 in the final of the International Championship, claiming his first-ever ranking title. The 22-year-old, who had been steadily rising through the ranks, delivered an exceptional performance in Nanjing, showcasing both skill and composure. Throughout the match, Wu hit four magnificent century breaks, including a remarkable 137, in what could be described as one of the most impressive displays of his career.
The win not only earned Wu the prestigious title but also saw him break into the world’s top 16 for the first time, solidifying his status as one of snooker’s rising stars. Despite a valiant effort from Higgins, the four-time world champion, who hit a 101 break in the third frame, the veteran Scot was unable to keep pace with Wu’s brilliance. At 50 years old, Higgins had hoped to become the first player in history to win ranking titles across five decades. However, it was Wu’s day, and the young prodigy sealed the victory with a superb 108 break in the final frame.
After his triumph, Wu expressed disbelief and joy. “Honestly, it feels unbelievable,” he said. “Deep down I always believed I had the ability to win a title. Every day I kept thinking about it. I had a strong will to lift a trophy, and that belief carried me through this week.”
For Higgins, there was no bitterness in defeat. He admitted, “I was nowhere near good enough today. He was striking the ball beautifully. He was by far the better player. It reminded me of playing Paul Hunter—the way he gets through the ball and generates so much action on it. He’s a brilliant player.” The 50-year-old Scot acknowledged that Wu’s victory could be a sign of things to come, stating, “It could open the floodgates for him. Snooker is in good hands with players like him coming through. I’m glad that I’ll be retiring soon, knowing guys like that are out there potting balls off the lampshades. He is a total star.”
Wu’s win marks not only a personal milestone but also signals the emergence of a new generation of snooker talent ready to take the sport to new heights.
