Mark Williams: “Judd Trump Is Up There With Ronnie O’Sullivan” — Ultimate Compliment After Players Championship Thriller

Mark Williams: “Judd Trump Is Up There With Ronnie O’Sullivan” — Ultimate Compliment After Players Championship Thriller

 

 

 

 

Telford, England — In the mixed aftermath of a pulsating semi-final defeat at the 2026 Players Championship, three-time World Champion Mark Williams didn’t just analyze Judd Trump’s performance — he elevated him to legendary status. After losing 3–6 to Trump in a tightly fought match that saw both players combine for five centuries and a total clearance of 141 from Williams himself, the Welsh maestro offered what many call “the ultimate compliment” in snooker circles: “That is as good as I’ve ever seen anyone play against me. Up there with O’Sullivan, Higgins, all of them.”

Williams, known for his razor-sharp potting and cool-headedness under pressure, admitted Trump’s display was flawless. “I played alright there. No part of my game was poor and I lost 6–3,” Williams said, acknowledging Trump’s dominance in safety exchanges, break-building, and tactical awareness throughout the match. Trump compiled breaks of 52, 75, 70, and a crucial 123 to seal victory, while Williams’ own 141 total clearance in frame one proved he was still very much in contention — but ultimately, Trump’s consistency and control tipped the scales.

The remark instantly sparked buzz across social media and among pundits. Trump, already holding 31 ranking titles and having completed snooker’s Triple Crown with wins at the UK Championship, Masters, and World Championship, is now frequently mentioned alongside Ronnie O’Sullivan as one of the sport’s most dominant forces. ³ ⁴ Williams’ endorsement carries weight: as a player who has battled every great since the late ’90s — including O’Sullivan, Hendry, Higgins, and Selby — his assessment is rarely given lightly.

“It’s not just about winning,” Williams continued. “It’s how you win. Judd doesn’t just pot balls — he makes you feel like you’re playing catch-up from frame one. That’s what O’Sullivan does. That’s what makes them special.”

Trump responded humbly: “I’m just trying to play my best snooker every week. To hear Mark say that means a lot. He’s one of the true greats, so when he gives you praise like that… you take it seriously.”

While Williams stopped short of declaring Trump the greatest ever — noting Trump still trails O’Sullivan’s 41 ranking titles and 23 Triple Crown wins — the implication was clear: Trump belongs in the conversation with the all-time elite.

This isn’t the first time Williams has praised rivals. He once called Stephen Hendry “the most complete player I ever faced,” and later described John Higgins as “the smartest tactician in the game.” But placing Trump alongside O’Sullivan — arguably the most revered name in snooker history — signals a shift in perception among peers.

Snooker analyst Steve Dawson weighed in: “Williams’ comment reflects a growing consensus. Trump’s scoring rate, mental toughness, and ability to dictate play mirror O’Sullivan’s style — minus the occasional flashiness. He’s become the benchmark for modern snooker.”

Fans reacted predictably:

SnookerFanUK: “Williams saying Trump = O’Sullivan? That’s like Messi saying Haaland is the GOAT. Game changer.”

CueCrazy: “Trump’s not just winning he’s redefining what dominance looks like post-O’Sullivan era.”

TheRocketRant: “Ronnie still holds the crown… but Judd’s wearing the heir apparent sash now.”

The victory also keeps Trump firmly atop the one-year ranking list with 304,350 points, ahead of Zhao Xintong and Wu Yize ¹. With the World Championship looming in April, Trump’s momentum could propel him toward a second Crucible triumph — something Williams hinted might finally cement Trump’s legacy beyond doubt.

For now, Williams’ words echo louder than any trophy: “Up there with O’Sullivan.”