Jimmy ‘Whirlwind’ White Triumphs in Stunning Comeback to Secure First Win of 2026 Against Cue-Making Maestro Sunny Akani
Jimmy “Whirlwind” White secured his first win of 2026 with a gritty 4-1 victory over Sunny Akani in the opening round of Welsh Open qualifying, held at Ponds Forge in Sheffield. The six-time World Championship finalist, who had a disappointing start to the year with a 5-3 loss to Huang Jiahao in the German Masters qualifiers, bounced back with resilience. After dropping the first frame to Akani, White fired off four consecutive frames to seal the win. His performance was marked by impressive breaks of 54, 54, and 56, setting up a second-round clash with David Lilley.
Akani, the Thai cue maker known for his skill in crafting snooker cues, had earlier impressed with a break of 89 in the opening frame. He’s also made a name for himself by providing Ronnie O’Sullivan with several custom cues, after the latter famously smashed his old cue during the Championship League last year. O’Sullivan, who has praised Akani’s cue-making abilities, even went as far as to call him “an unbelievable cue maker” and “a very intelligent guy.” The legend of snooker has used several of Akani’s cues, noting their quality and consistency.
In the wider context of the game, Jimmy White’s career remains a testament to dedication and excellence. Despite not clinching the elusive World Championship title, White’s six World final appearances are a remarkable achievement in themselves. Fans like Babydoo on social media highlight how White continues to inspire, not only with his skills but with his enduring passion for the game. The 1982 victory over Cliff Thorburn at the Mercantile Credit Classic, where White needed snookers to win, remains a highlight of his career, demonstrating his nerve and tenacity under pressure. Though White never won the World Championship, his ability to reach the final six times is nothing short of extraordinary. Few players, especially at his age, continue to produce such high-level snooker.
As he progresses to the next stage of the Welsh Open qualifiers, White’s legacy as one of the game’s greats continues to grow, with fans and players alike admiring his ability to defy age and expectations.
