Wu Yize clinched his first World Snooker Championship title at the age of 22, becoming the second-youngest winner in history after a dramatic 18-17 victory over Shaun Murphy. The Chinese player sealed the win with a break of 85 in the deciding frame, capping a remarkable tournament.
In his post-match interview, Wu admitted he initially misinterpreted the crowd's chants of 'Wuuuu' as booing, but later understood their support. He dedicated the victory to his parents, saying: 'My parents are the true champions.' His mother was visibly emotional as he spoke.
Murphy, gracious in defeat, said: 'I hate being right. After I beat him earlier this season, I said he would be world champion one day. It's just a real shame it was today!' The 2005 champion praised Wu's talent and predicted a bright future for the young star.
Wu, who dropped out of school to pursue snooker, said he had been 'living the same life for months' and was delighted to pull off the win. He now joins Zhao Xintong as part of a new generation of Chinese talent expected to dominate the sport.
