The World Open witnessed a stunning upset as Thepchaiya Un-Nooh dethroned snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan in a captivating 10-7 victory. The final, played in Yushan, was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts and breathtaking skill.
O’Sullivan, widely favored to claim the title, faced a determined opponent in the 40-year-old Un-Nooh, a player previously known for a single ranking win – a one-frame Shoot Out triumph. Few predicted the Thai star’s dominance throughout the week.
Un-Nooh had already signaled his intent by defeating world number one Judd Trump in the semi-finals, a 6-4 win that showcased his newfound confidence. But even falling behind 4-0 in the final didn’t deter him; he responded with an astonishing six consecutive frames.
The relentless pressure visibly rattled O’Sullivan, the seven-time world champion displaying rare frustration. He battled back, demonstrating his legendary talent with three consecutive centuries, surging into a 7-6 lead.
However, that proved to be O’Sullivan’s last stand. Un-Nooh seized control, leveling the match with a break of 77, then taking the lead again with a superb 132.
Then came a moment of pure magic: a breathtaking 147. The maximum break, achieved under immense pressure, was a testament to Un-Nooh’s composure and skill. It was his seventh career 147, a remarkable achievement.
Though the high break prize went to O’Sullivan for his record-breaking 153 earlier in the tournament, Un-Nooh remained unfazed. He continued his relentless form, securing the match with a final break of 131, completing a 10-7 victory.
O’Sullivan, aiming to become the first player to win a ranking event across five decades, was denied a piece of history. Despite his brilliant performance, including that monumental 153 break, he couldn’t overcome Un-Nooh’s inspired play.
Commentators were left in awe of Un-Nooh’s performance, particularly his late-match surge. Former professional Neal Foulds described the final three centuries, including the 147, as “one of the best displays of break-building under pressure that I’ve ever seen in my life.”
Un-Nooh’s victory earns him the £175,000 top prize and a coveted spot in the Tour Championship, reserved for the top 12 players on the one-year ranking list. O’Sullivan, despite qualifying, has opted not to participate in that event.
This remarkable run marks a significant turning point for Un-Nooh, who hadn’t reached a ranking quarter-final since the 2022 Scottish Open. His previous ranking final appearance, also at the World Open in 2019, ended in defeat against Judd Trump, making this victory all the more sweet.
