Judd Trump won the World Snooker Championship in 2019 World number one Judd Trump took a 5-3 lead in his World Championship last-16 tie with fellow former world champion Shaun Murphy, but narrowly missed a chance to move closer to winning a £100,000 bonus. Trump, 35, fought back from 2-0 and 3-2 down, winning the last three frames of the session, but, when on 98 in frame eight, missed a pot on the yellow that would have given him a century break. He has made 98 centuries this season and is the only player who could get to one hundred tons this term, something that would earn him a £100,000 prize. Trump will have another eight frames to play later on Sunday as the match resumes at 19:00 BST, before the final session on Monday from 13:00 BST, in the best-of-25 match. Only two players have made a hundred century breaks in one campaign - Neil Robertson in 2013-14 with 103 and Trump himself with 102 in 2019-20. Most century breaks in one season Neil Robertson (2013-14) 103 Judd Trump (2019-20) 102 Judd Trump (2024-25) 98 Judd Trump (2020-21) 90 Neil Robertson (2018-19) 84 Judd Trump (2018-19) 83 Judd Trump (2014-15) 82 Judd Trump (2023-24) 79 Ronnie O'Sullivan (2017-18) 74 Kyren Wilson (2020-21) 74 Zhao Xintong's previous best run at the Crucible came in 2022 when he went out in the last 16 China's Zhao Xintong moved into the quarter-finals for the first time in his career thanks to a 13-10 win over Lei Peifan. Leading 10-6 after the second session, 27-year-old Zhao looked on course for a maximum 147 in the opening frame of the day and potted nine reds and nine blacks before his break ended on 72. He was 41-12 ahead in frame 20, only for Lei to win that and the next two frames as Lei, who beat 2024 world champion Kyren Wilson in round one, threatened a comeback. But a break of 54 saw Zhao clinch victory to set up a quarter-final against England's Chris Wakelin, a player that has already eliminated 2010 world champion Neil Robertson and former world number one Mark Allen. "I'm so happy, that's the first time into the quarter-finals and I'm so proud of myself," he said. "In the first round he [Lei] came back against Kyren Wilson so I knew I wasn't ready to win and I needed to be strong. "I just want to go through the Crucible and I need to try my best and enjoy it as it is very nice, the crowd is nice and I want to stay longer. This is my first time to play Chris Wakelin, I know he is really good player." In June 2023, Zhao, a former UK Championship winner, was one of 10 Chinese players to receive bans for their involvement in match-fixing. He served a 20-month ban and has been the only player to return after he had not directly thrown a match but accepted charges of being a party to another player fixing two matches and betting on matches himself. Zhao is officially classed as an amateur for this tournament, but had already ensured his return to the World Snooker Tour full-time next season.
Trump ahead but still two tons from £100,000 prize
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Judd Trump Leads Shaun Murphy in World Championship Match; Zhao Xintong Reaches Quarter-Finals"
TruthLens AI Summary
Judd Trump, the world number one and reigning champion, is currently leading his World Snooker Championship last-16 match against fellow former champion Shaun Murphy with a score of 5-3. Trump, who has already made 98 century breaks this season, started the match by recovering from a 0-2 deficit, showcasing his skill and determination by winning the last three frames of the session. However, he narrowly missed a chance to increase his lead when he failed to pot a yellow ball while on a break of 98 in the eighth frame. This missed opportunity cost him a chance to reach a landmark of 100 century breaks in the season, a feat that would earn him a substantial £100,000 bonus. The match will continue later today, with Trump having eight more frames to play before the final session tomorrow, as they compete in a best-of-25 format.
In another exciting development, China's Zhao Xintong has advanced to the quarter-finals of the World Championship for the first time in his career after defeating Lei Peifan 13-10. Leading 10-6 after the second session, Zhao initially aimed for a maximum break of 147 but ultimately finished the frame with a break of 72. Despite a late rally from Lei, who won three consecutive frames, Zhao managed to secure his victory with a decisive break of 54. This win sets him up for a challenging quarter-final against England's Chris Wakelin, who has already eliminated notable players including 2010 world champion Neil Robertson. Zhao expressed his joy at reaching the quarter-finals and emphasized his determination to perform well in front of the supportive crowd. It is noteworthy that Zhao returned to competitive play after serving a 20-month ban related to match-fixing allegations, making this achievement particularly significant in his professional journey.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article covers the ongoing matches of the World Snooker Championship, focusing on Judd Trump’s performance and his pursuit of a significant milestone in his career. Trump, a prominent figure in the snooker world, is just two century breaks away from achieving a remarkable 100 for the season, which comes with a £100,000 prize. The narrative highlights both his current lead in a match against Shaun Murphy and the context of his overall performance this season.
Intent Behind the Article
The intention behind this report seems to be to inform snooker fans and the general public about Trump's achievements and the competitive nature of the championship. By emphasizing Trump's near-miss on reaching a century break, the article builds excitement and engages readers who follow the sport closely. The mention of past records adds a layer of historical significance, showcasing Trump’s potential to leave a lasting mark in snooker history.
Public Perception and Impact
This article aims to create a sense of anticipation and enthusiasm among the snooker community and sports enthusiasts. It highlights the intense competition and the stakes involved, particularly with the prospect of a substantial financial reward. There doesn’t appear to be any information being concealed; rather, it focuses on Trump’s journey and the milestones he is approaching.
Reliability of the Information
The facts presented seem credible, with specific references to Trump's performance and historical data regarding century breaks in snooker. The statistics are verifiable, and the context is relevant to the ongoing championship, thereby enhancing the article's reliability.
Comparison with Other Articles
This piece stands out among other sports articles by focusing specifically on individual player achievements and records within a well-regarded tournament. It likely connects with other articles that discuss player performances, upcoming matches, or historical context in sports.
Potential Societal Effects
The excitement generated by such articles could enhance viewership and engagement in snooker, potentially leading to increased attendance at matches and higher viewership ratings. This, in turn, could affect sponsorship deals, merchandise sales, and overall interest in the sport.
Target Audience
The article is likely aimed at snooker fans, sports enthusiasts, and general audiences interested in competition and achievement. It taps into a community that values sports history and individual excellence.
Financial Market Influence
While the article primarily focuses on sports, increased interest in snooker can have indirect effects on related businesses such as sports betting, media companies, and snooker merchandise. However, it is unlikely to directly impact stock markets.
Geopolitical Relevance
There is no direct geopolitical angle in this story, as it primarily concerns sports performance. However, the coverage of international players like Zhao Xintong indicates a global interest in snooker, connecting different cultures through sports.
Use of AI in Writing
It is possible that AI tools were used in drafting this article, particularly for data compilation and structuring. However, the narrative style suggests human oversight, ensuring clarity and engagement in the storytelling.
Manipulative Aspects
The article doesn’t seem to exhibit overt manipulation but rather focuses on excitement and achievement. The language is straightforward and celebratory, promoting the sport rather than targeting any particular individual or group negatively.
In conclusion, the article appears to be a reliable source of information that highlights significant achievements in the snooker world, encouraging audience engagement without any apparent bias or hidden agendas.