Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre witnessed pure drama as 22-year-old Chinese sensation Wu Yize outlasted Shaun Murphy in an epic 18-17 World Snooker Championship final, becoming only the second-youngest winner in history after Stephen Hendry’s 1990 feat at 21.
Wu, now the 25th Crucible king and holder of four straight ranking titles this season, has transformed from a Crucible novice—booted out in the first round in 2023 and 2025—into world No. 4 from 10th. His semifinal marathon against Mark Allen (17-16) set the stage for the final’s frenzy: three 100s, 29 half-centuries, and frames averaging 17 minutes amid relentless attacks.
History hung in the balance in the 35th frame, the first decider since 2002. Wu’s bold pot on a central red sparked an 85 clearance, clinching the trophy and half a million pounds.
Overjoyed, Wu credited his roots: ‘This is for my family and China. My parents endured everything for me—Dad by my side post-school, Mom my endless support. I love them dearly.’ Fans got a shoutout too: ‘Your passion for the game, regardless of allegiance, means everything.’
Murphy, eyeing a second crown after 2005 and a record 20-year gap, settled for runner-up, boosting to No. 5 with his 13th ranking title. ‘What a match—everything you want in snooker,’ he said. ‘Wu’s talent is unreal; I predicted his championship after playing him in China this season.’
This triumph cements China’s rising dominance, succeeding Brecel, Wilson, and Zhao as recent world bosses.
