Snooker legend John Higgins delivered a stark and self-critical verdict on his own game after falling short in the Masters final against Kyren Wilson on Sunday. The Scot, bidding for a historic third title, was defeated 10-6 at a packed Alexandra Palace.
A Night of Frustration for the Veteran
The 50-year-old Higgins, who had impressively beaten world number one Judd Trump to reach the final, was left to rue a performance he deemed well below his formidable best. More than 2,000 fans witnessed a match that struggled for consistent flow, with Higgins battling back from 3-1 down to level before trailing 5-3 after the first session.
Despite the electric atmosphere, Higgins could not mount a sustained comeback in the evening session. Wilson, showing composure and dominance, secured the frames needed to claim the £350,000 top prize and the coveted Paul Hunter Trophy for the first time.
Brutally Honest Post-Match Reaction
Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, Higgins did not hold back in his assessment. He praised the incredible support and conditions but was scathing about his own contribution.
"The crowd were fantastic and the entrance tonight was one of the best experiences I've had as a snooker player," Higgins said. "The conditions were absolutely fantastic as well but I was just useless."
He added, "It's disappointing because the last two finals I've played in I've gone out like a light. Taking no credit away from Kyren, he was by far the better player. He was totally dominant. He's a great champion."
Emotional Triumph for Wilson
For Kyren Wilson, the victory marked a poignant and hard-fought milestone. Having lost two previous Masters finals, in 2017 to Mark Allen and 2024 to Shaun Murphy, this was a case of third time lucky.
An emotional Wilson described the final as an "absolute dogfight" and paid tribute to his opponent. "It was an honour and privilege to share the table with an idol of mine," he said. "I tried to be as dogged as John has been over the years, and that is why he has been so successful. I'm glad he's managed to give me one for a change."
The win caps a resilient period for Wilson, who is the 2024 world champion but confessed to nearing a "mental breakdown" after a shock defeat in the UK Championship just last month.
Both players will now turn their attention to the German Masters in Berlin, which begins on January 26.
