Judd Trump is set to face off against Mark Williams once again in Saudi Arabia this Thursday, a matchup that is sure to draw attention given their storied rivalry. The two former world champions have gone head-to-head in several memorable encounters, including two World Championship semi-finals, a thrilling Masters final, and the inaugural Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters.
Despite Trump’s dominance in three of their last four encounters, Williams clinched victory in their most recent match with a remarkable 17-14 win during the World Championship in Sheffield earlier this year. As they prepare for their next clash at the Riyadh Season Snooker Championship, Trump has expressed his admiration for Williams’ unique style of play.
“His style of play is very different to everyone, I think,” Trump said, acknowledging that Williams is an unpredictable opponent. He noted that while Williams sometimes struggles against lower-ranked players, he remains a formidable force when facing top talent. “He’s still got his A game,” Trump added, emphasizing that Williams has evolved significantly over the years.
Reflecting on their past encounters, Trump believes that Williams is now a more dangerous player than when he first began competing against him. “When I was growing up, he wasn’t that good,” Trump remarked, pointing out how Williams has become a heavier scorer in major tournaments. Their historic showdown at the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters left a lasting impression on Trump, who described his final clearance that won him the tournament as one of his most satisfying moments in the sport.
For Williams, the loss in that final was a learning experience. Despite coming so close to winning the £500,000 prize, he took the defeat in stride, appreciating the competitive match and acknowledging the financial reward of £200,000 for being the runner-up. “It’s not a bad day,” he said, reflecting on the experience with a relaxed perspective.
As the anticipation builds for their next encounter, both players are poised to deliver another thrilling display of skill and resilience on the snooker table. This upcoming match is not only a chance for Trump to seek revenge for his recent defeat but also for Williams to solidify his status as a top contender in the sport. With both players at their peak, fans are in for what promises to be another exciting chapter in their ongoing rivalry.