“He’s a wonderful world champion,” said Shaun Murphy after losing to Wu Yize in the World Snooker Championship final on May 4, 2026. Wu’s victory at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield makes him the second-youngest world champion at just 22 years old.
The match ended with a nail-biting score of 18-17. It marked the first final to go to a deciding frame since 2002. Wu produced a decisive break of 85 in that final frame, clinching his win.
Murphy initially trailed with a 10-7 deficit but managed to turn the match around to take a 12-10 lead. However, the back-and-forth battle continued until Murphy made a remarkable clearance of 131, leveling the score at 16-16.
This championship win continues a trend of young talent in snooker. Wu’s success follows Zhao Xintong’s victory last year. The match featured a total of 35 frames, showcasing intense competition between two skilled players.
“My parents are the true champions,” Wu stated, acknowledging their support throughout his journey. He dropped out of school to pursue snooker, and his mother’s health challenges added depth to his story.
Murphy has now lost four World Championship finals. His previous defeat was against Mark Selby in 2021. The seasoned player expressed respect for his opponent and acknowledged Wu’s extraordinary achievement.
As fans reflect on this thrilling final, many will consider what this means for both players’ futures. The next major tournament will be closely watched by snooker enthusiasts around the globe.
