Mark Williams was crowned the 2024 Grosvenor Casinos Champion of Champions after a commanding 10-6 triumph over Xiao Guodong in Sunday’s final.
Williams set the tone early, taking the first frame as Xiao struggled to find his rhythm. The Welsh Potting Machine capitalised on Xiao’s in-off and a failed safety in the second frame to extend his lead to 2-0. Showcasing his trademark composure, Williams delivered masterful clearances of 91 and 77 to push ahead to 4-0. The lead grew further in the fifth frame when a rare safety error from Xiao allowed Williams to clear the table and extend his advantage to 5-0.
Xiao finally broke through in the sixth frame, claiming his first with a calculated clearance. Building on this, the Wuhan Open champion controlled a tactical safety exchange in the seventh to notch the first century of the match, narrowing the gap to 5-2.
The momentum momentarily shifted in Xiao’s favour as he displayed his resilience with a 76 break, followed by a stunning 117 century to inch closer at 5-4. However, Williams responded emphatically after the mid-session break, delivering a clinical 112 century to halt Xiao’s surge and reassert control. A fortunate fluke in the eleventh frame helped Williams edge further ahead, putting him within striking distance of victory at 7-4.
Xiao continued to battle, taking the twelfth frame with a dominant clearance after forcing Williams into a mistake. Williams struck back in style in the thirteenth with a total clearance of 125, only for Xiao to capitalise on an error in the next to close the gap once again at 8-6.
The fifteenth frame proved pivotal, with both players engaging in a tense safety exchange. Williams emerged on top, crafting a composed 95 break to move within one frame of the title. The sixteenth and final frame saw Williams maintain his nerve, producing another brilliant clearance to sweep to victory and lift his maiden Champion of Champions trophy.
Mark Williams commented: “I can’t believe I am still winning tournaments at my age. Winning this event today honestly feels unbelievable. Props to Xiao who has been a great player throughout this tournament and a great finalist.”
Williams’ form in 2024 has been nothing short of extraordinary. After reaching the final of the inaugural Saudi Arabia Masters and clinching the Tour Championship title, he now adds the prestigious Champion of Champions crown to his stellar season.
