Stephen Maguire Crashes Out of UK Championship in Shocking 6-0 Whitewash, Slams Own Performance as ‘Garbage’

Stephen Maguire faced a disappointing exit from the UK Championship at the hands of world champion Kyren Wilson, losing 6-0 in the opening round at the Barbican in York. Maguire, a former winner of the event in 2004 with several other deep runs to his name, expressed frustration over his performance, labeling it “garbage” in a candid interview with Eurosport.

Reflecting on his lackluster display, Maguire admitted that his highest break of 32 was far below his standards and remarked, “I have no words for that… Well, I do have a word, but I won’t say it.” He added that he was relieved the match was not a best-of-19 format, as he feared an even heavier defeat.

Currently ranked world No. 33, Maguire has started working with coach Chris Small in a bid to rediscover his form. Despite the setback, he remains committed to improvement, saying, “I have to keep trying. I am enjoying working with Chris Small.” However, he acknowledged the need to move past this performance and hopes it will prove to be an isolated incident.

A point of contention raised by pundits was Maguire’s tendency to frequently change his cue, with Dominic Dale noting that he began using a new one only two weeks prior. Jimmy White, speaking in the Eurosport studio, criticized the constant equipment changes, arguing that it takes months to adjust to a new cue.

White advised Maguire to settle on one and stick with it, asserting that “changing cues all the time” hinders consistency and tournament success. Maguire now faces the challenge of stabilizing his game and equipment as he works to bounce back.