Mark Williams, 50, Defies Age with Stunning 5-1 Victory to Reach 68th Career Semi-Final at Wuhan Open
Mark Williams is enjoying an extraordinary late-career resurgence, and his remarkable 5-1 victory over Zhang Anda in the quarter-finals of the Wuhan Open on Thursday only added to his storied legacy. At 50 years old, the Welsh snooker legend has defied age and expectations, securing a spot in the semi-finals of his 68th ranking event. It’s a milestone that marks just how enduring his skill and passion for the game truly are.
In a tournament where many younger players are looking to make their mark, Williams continues to hold his own with an air of calm determination. After an earlier 5-1 demolition of Joe O’Connor and a hard-fought 5-3 win over the ever-dangerous Mark Selby, Williams’ performance against Zhang Anda was nothing short of dominant. A series of impressive breaks — including runs of 74, 58, 83, and 60 — saw him secure a commanding victory. Zhang, who managed to avoid a complete whitewash, could only muster a 50-point break in the second frame, but this was little more than a brief respite in what was otherwise a masterclass from the veteran.
What’s even more remarkable is Williams’ refusal to slow down, despite celebrating his 50th birthday in March. His infectious enthusiasm for the game is as potent as ever. “I’ve got to savour it, because how am I still doing it at 50?” Williams reflected, sounding both surprised and elated by his ongoing success. His longevity in the sport is a testament to his resilience, discipline, and unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
With his sights set on the £140,000 prize and a chance to move back above Ronnie O’Sullivan into the world No. 4 spot, Williams is hungry for more success. If he wins the title, he will become the oldest player ever to claim a ranking event victory, surpassing Ray Reardon’s 1982 record. Williams’ continued success, even after three decades in the sport, is a reminder that age is but a number, and talent, when nurtured, only improves with time.
Regardless of whether or not he takes home the title from Wuhan, Mark Williams has already proven to the snooker world that he’s a true champion, defying age and expectations with every frame. His place in snooker history is assured, but the 50-year-old has more than earned the right to keep chasing the game he loves, with every reason to be proud of his ongoing achievements.
