Wilson Triumphs Over Robertson in Nail-Biting Match to Advance to Semi-Finals

Kyren Wilson emerged victorious against Neil Robertson with a score of 6-5 in a thrilling match that culminated in a dramatic final frame, securing his spot in the Masters semi-finals where he will face Wu Yize.

The contest featured two of the top three players in the world rankings, with Wilson kicking off the match with an impressive break of 110 in the first frame.

The Englishman demonstrated an aggressive style throughout the game, notching another century and two half-centuries, which allowed him to establish a commanding lead of 4-1.

Although Robertson struggled initially, he mounted an impressive comeback. The Australian, a two-time Masters champion, won a strange fourth frame and followed it up with consecutive centuries alongside a break of 65, turning the tables to lead 5-4.

In front of a lively crowd of over 2,000 at Alexandra Palace, Wilson crafted a brilliant break of 111, setting the stage for a thrilling finale. He then made a determined 42 to clinch the match in a captivating conclusion.

“It was a fantastic game and I am glad it lived up to its billing. Neil is a fantastic champion and on any other day he drifts inside the black spot and it’s 6-4,” Wilson remarked.

He added, “I made a really good clearance for 5-5 and just dug it out. It was one where win or lose you are thinking there is plenty to build on for the rest of the season.”

Wilson on Track for His First Masters Title

This season has been challenging for Wilson, marked by various off-table issues that have affected his performance. In December, he admitted to being on the brink of a “mental breakdown” following his defeat to Elliot Slessor in the last 32 of the UK Championship.

After having to replace the cue with which he won the world title in 2024 due to an unfortunate accident, it appears he has found a suitable alternative and regained his confidence.

The way he played against Robertson, particularly against a player who secured his second Masters title in 2022, suggests that an exciting match against Wu on Saturday at 19:00 GMT is on the horizon.

Wilson executed a series of remarkable shots, none more impressive than the long red he made while under pressure at 5-4, after being placed on the top cushion by his opponent.

“I just had to make something happen,” Wilson explained. “It was one of those where it was the only red I could leave and I had a shot on the black. I didn’t want to play safe because I felt the match slipping away.”

Wu Dominates Against Xiao

Earlier on Friday, Wu Yize showcased his prowess by decisively defeating his practice partner Xiao Guodong with a score of 6-0. Wu, who aims to become the seventh player to win the prestigious Masters on his first attempt, started the match with a phenomenal break of 112.

The 22-year-old continued his strong performance with additional breaks of 93 and 60, leading 4-0 at the mid-session interval against his fellow Chinese player.

While Wu’s display was not flawless, he capitalized on Xiao’s struggles, who failed to find his rhythm and appeared to lack the form that had enabled him to defeat Mark Selby 6-2 in the first round.

Xiao, ranked 11th in the world, squandered chances in the opening frame, missing a straightforward blue shot, which allowed Wu to take control of the match.

Wu finished with a break of 84 to claim the fifth frame and concluded the match with a strong run of 97.

“It is definitely a dream stage for me since I was a little kid,” Wu stated. “I just told myself to enjoy every moment of this match and give my best and obviously it is a great performance.”