Kyren Wilson produced a powerful statement of intent at the Masters, brushing aside recent turmoil to defeat Si Jiahui in the opening round at Alexandra Palace.
Just weeks after admitting he had reached a “boiling point” during a frustrating dip in form, the reigning world champion looked refreshed, composed and ruthless as he secured a 6–2 victory that underlined his credentials as a serious contender for the title.
Wilson’s performance was notable not only for the scoreline, but for what it represented. Since lifting the world crown last season, the 34-year-old has struggled to find consistency, a situation exacerbated by problems with his cue following refurbishment.
The disruption to his trusted equipment clearly took a mental toll, culminating in a painful early exit at the UK Championship that Wilson later described as one of the lowest moments of his career.
Arriving at the Masters, however, Wilson appeared a different player.
Armed with a new cue that finally feels right in his hands, he settled quickly against Si and raced into an early lead.
His cue action was smooth, his shot selection assured and his scoring heavy, all signs that confidence had returned. At one stage, he even threatened a maximum break, rattling in reds and blacks with ease before the run came to an end — a warning shot to the rest of the field.
Si Jiahui, one of the game’s brightest young talents, showed flashes of his quality and briefly reduced the deficit, but Wilson was never shaken.
Drawing on his experience and championship pedigree, he upped the tempo at key moments, reeling off frames with clinical efficiency. Two century breaks — including a fluent 101 and a composed 105 — highlighted a display that blended patience with attacking intent.
Beyond the snooker itself, Wilson’s post-match words carried weight.
Speaking candidly about the challenges he has faced, he stressed the importance of resilience, honesty and support within the sport. His message was clear: even at the top, players are not immune to self-doubt, but confronting those struggles head-on is part of sustaining success.
The reaction from fellow professionals and fans alike suggested his openness struck a chord across the snooker world.
As the reigning world champion, Wilson understands that every performance is judged through a different lens.
This win was not just about progressing to the quarter-finals; it was about reaffirming belief — both his own and that of those watching.
The assured manner in which he closed out the match sent a reminder that, when comfortable with his equipment and clear in his mind, he remains one of the most formidable competitors on the circuit.
With momentum restored and confidence rebuilt, Wilson now moves deeper into the Masters carrying renewed purpose.
If this performance is any indication, the “boiling point” may yet prove to be a turning point — the moment that reignited his season and reasserted his status among snooker’s elite.
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