In a dramatic turn of events, Mark Selby ended his 18-month dry spell for a ranking title by defeating John Higgins in the British Open final. The victory marked Selby’s first win in this prestigious event, and Higgins couldn’t help but shower him with praise, calling his performance “amazing” and noting how he got “stronger and stronger” as the match progressed.

Higgins himself admitted that Selby put on a clinic, showcasing his talent and skill on the green baize. Selby’s flawless execution saw him clinch victory by reeling off the last three frames in a row, making his victory all the more impressive.

The four-time world champion Selby displayed his prowess with two century breaks and finishing off the match with back-to-back breaks of 91 and 93. Higgins, despite his defeat, acknowledged Selby’s superior gameplay, stating, “He played amazing, that’s what he does, Mark Selby.”

Reflecting on the match, Higgins expressed his disappointment over not being able to capitalize on a crucial opportunity in the 10th frame, which could have tied the score at 5-5. He recognized that moment as a turning point where Selby capitalized on his mistakes and surged ahead with his exceptional performance.

Despite the loss, Higgins is poised to make a return to the top 16 in the world rankings, showcasing his enduring talent and resilience in the sport. He congratulated Selby on his victory, acknowledging that he needs to elevate his own game to compete with the top players in snooker.

Selby, whose last ranking title was in March 2023, reflected on the ups and downs of his form in recent years. He emphasized the importance of staying focused and seizing opportunities when they arise, highlighting his winning mentality and determination.

Looking back on the final, Selby admitted to moments of doubt but credited his ability to stay composed and capitalize on his chances. His strategic mindset and unwavering focus ultimately led him to victory over a formidable opponent like Higgins.

In conclusion, Selby’s triumph at the British Open not only ended his title drought but also showcased his resilience and talent on the snooker table. As he basked in the glory of his well-deserved win, Selby remained humble and grateful for the opportunity to compete at the highest level of the sport.