Kyren Wilson crowned as the new king of world snooker

Not even the most knowledgeable experts in the sport could have predicted that the World Snooker Championship would be Kyren Wilson's moment to shine. 

The 32-year-old had endured a challenging year, both on and off the table. He had not secured a ranking event victory throughout the season and had to cope with personal family issues that added to his struggles. His wife Sophie suffered a stroke and was subsequently diagnosed with epilepsy, while his son Bailey battled illness and underwent surgery following an accident at school.

However, despite these adversities, the determined Englishman proved himself to be a deserving champion by displaying some of the finest snooker of his career. With his back against the wall, Wilson showed incredible resilience as he faced a fierce comeback from Welsh qualifier Jak Jones. In the end, he managed to hold his nerve and secure an 18-14 victory, claiming his first-ever world title.

Jones was only the ninth qualifier in the past 47 years to reach the final at the Crucible and he came tantalizingly close to joining the likes of his compatriot Terry Griffiths in 1979 and Shaun Murphy in 2005 by clinching the coveted title. But it was Wilson who ultimately ended Jones' magic run. 

Heading into Monday night's final session with a commanding lead of 15-10, Wilson continued to assert his dominance and moved within touching distance of victory at 17-11. Despite Jones' valiant efforts, winning three consecutive frames, he had left himself with too much ground to make up.  

"It was so nice to have all the family there and let out our emotions," Wilson revealed, reflecting on his victory. The elation of his match-winning break was evident as he let out a roar of delight, struggling to contain his excitement as the magnitude of his success sank in.  

"I would like to say sorry to Jak for that outburst but it does mean so much to us all... My mum and dad have remortgaged and sacrificed their whole lives to get me here. We have been on a real roller coaster of a journey since I was 6 years old. I have given everything, I held myself together, kept myself composed and Jak fought and fought and made it so difficult for me."

"And I've got some bad news for Sophie," added Wilson. "Unfortunately she'll have to roll over tonight – there's only one 'Lady' coming to bed with me."

While Wilson undoubtedly deserved the trophy, it is essential to give due recognition to Jones for his remarkable tenacity and relentless resilience throughout the tournament. Despite falling short of the ultimate prize, Jones exhibited an unwavering fighting spirit that deserves admiration.  

Jones only embarked on his professional journey in 2010 and had crossed paths with Wilson 13 years ago. However, his career has been paved with numerous setbacks, including periods of dropping off the main tour.

"It's been an unbelievable tournament for me. About a month ago I was twitching in my first qualifying match. It's been a long month but I'm happy with it," Jones said. "I am proud because I don't think I have played that well, so to beat some of the best players in the world and get to a final and so close to winning, it gives me confidence."