Kyren Wilson secured his maiden Masters crown on Sunday evening, overcoming John Higgins 10-6 in the final at Alexandra Palace.
The 2024 world champion was visibly emotional as he clinched victory, struggling to hold back his feelings upon realising he had captured the prestigious title.
In a memorable exchange during the closing stages, a spectator shouted encouragement to Wilson, urging him to finish the job.
The Warrior responded with characteristic humour, calling back “I’m trying!” before sinking the decisive black that left Higgins requiring snookers.
Wilson potted a long red followed by green to seal the triumph and spark celebrations at Ally Pally.
The turning point arrived during the afternoon session when Wilson produced consecutive century breaks of 103 and 111 to establish a commanding 5-3 advantage heading into the evening.
Higgins had earlier clawed his way back into contention, recovering from 3-1 down to draw level at 3-3 during a frustrating spell that included one frame lasting 40 minutes.
However, Wilson’s clinical response proved too much for the Scot to overcome.
Kyren Wilson secured his maiden Masters crown on Sunday evening
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The back-to-back tons represented a devastating statement of intent, with the second century notably becoming the 750th in Masters history.
From that point, Wilson maintained his two-frame cushion throughout the remainder of the best-of-19 contest.
Higgins offered a brutally honest assessment of his display following the defeat.
“I was useless,” the four-time world champion admitted. “Can’t take away from Kyren. He deserved it, but I’m really disappointed with my performance.”
For coming in second place, Higgins bagged £140,000
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The Wizard of Wishaw had been seeking to become a three-time Masters winner but never found the form that has defined his illustrious career.
Throughout the contest, Higgins appeared infuriated with his inability to perform when it mattered most.
The interval between sessions offered him an opportunity to regroup, yet he could not rediscover his rhythm in the evening.
The final was characterised by nervy exchanges and costly errors from both competitors.
Kyren Wilson secured the £350,000 jackpot
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Higgins repeatedly squandered promising positions, missing routine pots that left him visibly angry with himself.
At one stage, the Scot missed a straightforward black when well-placed in a frame, appearing so frustrated that he looked ready to snap his cue in half.
Wilson capitalised ruthlessly on such mistakes, demonstrating clinical finishing whenever opportunities arose.
His highest break of the match, a 78, moved him within touching distance of the trophy.
Five quirky facts about snooker | PADespite breaking 70 late on to reduce the deficit, Higgins could not mount a sustained challenge as elementary blunders continued to undermine his efforts.
Wilson secured the £350,000 jackpot.
The total prize fund is £1,015,000.
For coming in second place, Higgins bagged £140,000.
