Snooker icon Stephen Hendry found himself reaching for his phone to contact old rival Steve Davis after witnessing something he never expected to see during a major final. The seven-time world champion was left utterly astonished by Kyren Wilson's conduct during the decisive moments of his Masters triumph at Alexandra Palace.
Comic Relief Amid Championship Pressure
Wilson secured his second Triple Crown title with a commanding 10-6 victory over Scottish veteran John Higgins in north London. However, it was the manner of his closing frame that sparked conversation throughout the snooker world. With the championship within touching distance, the 2024 world champion displayed remarkable composure - and unexpected humour - during the tense conclusion.
Theatrical Frustration and Crowd Interaction
After potting a difficult red into the middle pocket, Wilson immediately realised his positional play had left him in trouble. Rather than simply contemplating his next shot, the English player theatrically pretended to bite his cue in mock frustration, drawing smiles from the capacity crowd. The entertainment continued when a spectator shouted encouragement, prompting Wilson to respond: "I'm trying!" before adding to widespread laughter: "I hate this game sometimes!"
This light-hearted approach during what should have been nerve-shredding championship moments particularly caught the attention of Hendry, who was providing expert commentary for the BBC's coverage of the prestigious tournament. The snooker great couldn't comprehend how any player could maintain such humour with £350,000 and a major title on the line.
Hendry's Immediate Reaction
Speaking subsequently on the World Snooker Tour's Snooker Club podcast, the six-time Masters winner revealed his instant response. "I couldn't believe that," Hendry confessed. "In that situation, nearly winning the match and he can think of funny things to say. I messaged Steve, who was in the studio. I said, 'Can you believe what he was doing?' We'd never do that."
This candid admission highlights the generational difference in approach between snooker's established legends and the current crop of professionals. Where previous champions maintained intense concentration until the final ball was potted, Wilson demonstrated a more relaxed, personality-driven style that resonated with the Alexandra Palace audience.
From Breakdown Brink to Championship Form
Wilson's Masters victory represents a remarkable turnaround from his previous Triple Crown appearance at last year's UK Championship. The 34-year-old had confessed to being on the verge of a "mental breakdown" during his opening-round defeat to Elliot Slessor, struggling with unfamiliar equipment after his regular cue sustained damage during routine maintenance.
Now competing with a cue he fully trusts, Wilson appears revitalised and ready to challenge for further honours this season. Reflecting on his dramatic change in fortunes, he revealed: "I thought at the UK [Championship], 'I'm gone.' I honestly didn't know if I was ever going to be back in the winner's enclosure. I came here with a new lease of life."
Family Motivation and Future Prospects
The Englishman also disclosed the personal motivation behind his success, having made a promise to his mother about the winner's trophy. "I've got such a supportive family and I promised my mum she was going to have that bit of crystal on her dining room table," Wilson shared. "It's coming home, mum!"
Hendry, despite his initial disbelief at Wilson's conduct, acknowledged the champion's credentials and potential for further success. "He definitely loves the occasion," the Scottish legend observed. "He's a big occasion player, he's the real deal. He's a big contender for the World Championship this year."
This endorsement from one of snooker's all-time greats underscores Wilson's transformation from a player struggling with equipment and confidence issues to a genuine force in the sport's biggest tournaments. His ability to combine championship-winning snooker with crowd-pleasing personality marks an intriguing development as the season progresses towards its Sheffield climax.
