The numbers
Thepchaiya Un-Nooh won the World Open final against Ronnie O’Sullivan with a score of 10-7, showcasing a remarkable comeback after being down 4-0. This victory marks Un-Nooh’s first major title since his win at the 2019 Shoot Out.
In a thrilling match, Un-Nooh achieved a maximum break of 147, while O’Sullivan, a seven-time world champion, recorded the highest break of the tournament at 153. Un-Nooh’s performance not only secured him the championship but also earned him a prize of £175,000, while O’Sullivan received £75,000 for his impressive break.
Un-Nooh expressed his emotions after the match, stating, “I just wanted to try my best because I didn’t know when I might be in another final again.” His determination was evident as he fought back against O’Sullivan, who acknowledged Un-Nooh’s skill, saying, “I just want to say well done to Thepchaiya who played unbelievable snooker.”
This victory is particularly significant for Un-Nooh as he described it as “the biggest prize of my career.” The win not only adds to his accolades but also highlights his potential in the sport, especially against a formidable opponent like O’Sullivan.
Looking ahead, the next World Open is scheduled to take place from March 16 to March 22, 2026, with a total prize money of £825,000. The semi-finals are set for March 21, and the final will conclude the tournament on March 22. Notably, Mark Selby and Barry Hawkins withdrew from this year’s tournament, which may have impacted the competition landscape.
As the snooker community reflects on this year’s World Open, observers are eager to see how Un-Nooh’s victory will influence his future performances and whether he can maintain this momentum in upcoming tournaments. The excitement surrounding the next World Open is palpable, with fans and players alike anticipating another thrilling event.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this match on the rankings and future competitions, but Un-Nooh’s win undoubtedly adds a new chapter to his career and the ongoing narrative of snooker excellence.
