World No.1 Judd Trump produced a commanding comeback display to topple reigning World Champion Zhao Xintong and book his place in a sixth Champion of Champions final at the Mattioli Arena in Leicester.
Reflecting on his victory, Trump said: “I made a couple of early errors, but once Zhao let me back in I felt I controlled the match from that point. I took my chances when they came, and I’m pleased to be into another final. I go into every match wanting to do my best — I’ve done that all week. Now I’m hungry to lift that trophy again.”
PURCHASE SPECTATOR TICKETS HERE
Zhao made the early running, snatching the opening frame after a costly miss from Trump and doubling his advantage with a smooth break of 76. But the World No.1 struck back with a composed 68 to halve the deficit, before Zhao’s missed black in the fourth allowed Trump to counter with a 78 and level the match at 2–2.
The pivotal fifth frame saw both players locked in a tactical battle, but a foul from Zhao handed Trump the lead for the first time. From there, The Ace in the Pack took full control, tightening the screws with precise safety and back-to-back scoring visits of 78 and 79 to move one frame from victory.
Zhao attempted a late counter following a miss from Trump, but a difficult cut to the middle failed to drop—leaving the World No.1 to close out the match and seal his place in Sunday’s showpiece final.
Trump will now face the winner of tomorrow’s semi-final between four-time World Champion Mark Selby and two-time Champion of Champions winner Neil Robertson, in what promises to be a blockbuster encounter.
There are still a limited number of tickets available. Secure your ticket here.
For those wanting to catch the action live, find the full list of global broadcasters here.
