Only Neil Robertson and Judd Trump were playing in the prestigious 8 men’s event in Llandudno last week (28 March – 3 April 2022). Neil was the defending Champion and duly emerged the winner again. He beat Mark Allen (10-6), Ronnie O’Sullivan (10-9), and John Higgins (10-9) to defend the title in magnificent fashion. He battled from 9-4 down to win the final.

This was Neil’s twenty-third ranking title.

Neil was obviously thrilled. This is what he had to say after the final (quotes source: WST)

“I always believe that I can come back from any position. The way I play the game means that if I can get the momentum then I can go on a winning streak in a number of frames,” said 40-year-old Robertson.

“I wasn’t allowing the match to get bogged down. John was just dictating the position of the balls. I didn’t have too many answers. When he went 9-4 up he was at his best, it was incredible to experience playing against him. When you aren’t making too many mistakes it is easier to get back into a match. I wasn’t kicking myself over anything, because John was just playing too well.

“He was really unlucky at certain times, but that is what you need to be able to come back in a match. I feel for him big time. He is such a fantastic person and a wonderful player. He will use that for motivation at the World Championship as he always does.

“It is like I’ve had three finals this week against brilliant players. Hopefully, that will hold me in good stead. I can have a few days off now, chill and relax. Then I will get back into preparations for the worlds.”

Judd on the other hand went out to Luca Brecel (10-6) in the first round. He didn’t play well and looked quite dispirited.

All detailed results are on snooker.org