Mark Williams and Zhao Xintong are into the semi-finals by virtue of wins over John Higgins and Chris Wakelin respectively, with Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump joining them in the final four…

Mark Williams and Zhao Xintong are into the semi-finals by virtue of wins over John Higgins and Chris Wakelin respectively, with Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump joining them in the final four…

 

The semi-finals of one of the season’s most hotly contested snooker tournaments are officially set, with four of the sport’s elite names — Mark Williams, Zhao Xintong, Ronnie O’Sullivan, and Judd Trump — making up a blockbuster final four.

 

Veteran Welshman Mark Williams booked his place in the semis with a confident and clinical win over fellow snooker legend John Higgins. The two former world champions traded tactical blows early on, but Williams soon found another gear, displaying his trademark composure and pinpoint positional play to pull away in the mid-session. A flurry of high breaks, including a 92 and a 104, saw him close out the match in commanding fashion, underscoring why he remains a threat on the biggest stages.

 

Meanwhile, Zhao Xintong, the young Chinese star tipped as the future of the game, produced a stylish performance to eliminate Chris Wakelin. Known for his rapid pace and aggressive cue action, Zhao maintained control from the outset, showing maturity beyond his years. Wakelin, who had impressed in previous rounds, struggled to keep up with Zhao’s scoring power. With breaks of 78, 66, and 101, Zhao sealed his semi-final berth and further cemented his status as China’s next snooker superstar.

 

Joining them are two of the sport’s most formidable forces — Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump — both of whom advanced with commanding victories of their own.

 

O’Sullivan, the seven-time world champion, looked in imperious form once again, breezing through his quarter-final match and reminding fans why he remains snooker’s most captivating figure. His touch around the table, combined with a series of effortless breaks, left little doubt that he is gunning for yet another title. This semi-final appearance adds to what has been a strong season for O’Sullivan, who continues to defy age and expectations.

 

Judd Trump, meanwhile, put on a masterclass of attacking snooker to reach the semis, dispatching his opponent with flair and authority. Trump’s performance was highlighted by quickfire breaks and razor-sharp safety play, a balance that has become a hallmark of his modern game. As one of the few players who consistently challenges O’Sullivan, Trump’s presence in the final four sets up a tantalizing possibility of another chapter in their growing rivalry.

 

The semi-final matchups are now set, with Williams vs. Zha offering a fascinating clash of generations and playing styles, while a potential showdown between O’Sullivan and Trump looms — a match that would have all the makings of a modern classic.

 

As the tournament heads into its final stretch, the stage is perfectly set for a dramatic finish. With legends and rising stars battling it out, fans are in for a thrilling weekend of top-tier snooker.

 

Stay tuned for match schedules, semi-final previews, and full coverage as the action continues.