Judd Trump Sets Up Final Clash with Kyren Wilson

Judd Trump will face Kyren Wilson in the Northern Ireland Open final after dominating Elliot Slessor 6-0 in the semi-finals held in Belfast. The defending champion and world number one showcased his skill at the Waterfront Hall, delivering impressive breaks of 78, 61 and 90. Slessor struggled throughout the match managing only 62 points against Trump, who is aiming to secure the tournament title for the fifth time in eight years.

Standing in Trump’s way is fellow English player Wilson, the world number two, who emerged victorious with a 6-4 win over Pang Junxu earlier in the day. Wilson began strong, registering a break of 110 in the first frame. However, his Chinese opponent quickly countered with a break of 83 leveling the score. Wilson then took control, winning the next two frames including one with a 77 break.

Pang managed to claw back to reduce the deficit to 3-2 before Wilson restored his lead with a 72-point break moving him within one frame of victory. Although Pang fought back, winning the next two frames, Wilson ultimately sealed his place in the final by clinching the 10th frame with a break of 83. Pang ranked 27th in the world failed to claim the scalp of a third world champion. He had previously defeated former winners Luca Brecel and Neil Robertson earlier in the tournament.

Wilson aims to secure his second ranking title of the season following his victory at the Xi’an Grand Prix in August where he defeated Trump 10-8 in the final. Judd Trump now 35 has already enjoyed success this season, winning both the Shanghai Masters and the inaugural Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters.