Barry Hawkins’ Thrilling Victory Ends Neil Robertson’s Masters Dream

Barry Hawkins kept his Masters dreams alive with a dramatic 6-5 victory over David Gilbert in the last 16 of the UK Championship in York. The win propels Hawkins to 16th in the standings, provisionally securing a spot at the prestigious Masters tournament at Alexandra Palace, set to take place from January 12-19.

His triumph has also dashed Neil Robertson’s hopes of qualifying for the event. Robertson, a two-time Masters champion (2012, 2022), needed favorable outcomes elsewhere to retain his position in the top 16 after a 6-3 loss to world No. 1 Ronnie O’Sullivan in the previous round.

This marks a rare absence for the Australian star, who has been a mainstay at the Masters since 2018. The loss is particularly notable given Robertson’s history of success at the event, which includes a dominant 10-4 victory over Hawkins in the 2020 final.

Hawkins, a two-time Masters finalist, still faces uncertainty as his place in the elite 16-player field depends on the outcomes of other matches. Despite the pressure, the Kent-based player showed remarkable composure in a nerve-wracking final frame against Gilbert, showcasing the grit and skill that have defined his career.

The Masters is one of snooker’s most iconic tournaments, featuring the world’s top players and boasting a rich history. For Hawkins, earning a spot would mean another chance to chase a title that has eluded him twice. For Robertson, however, it’s an uncharacteristic setback in a stellar career.