As the World Snooker Championship 2025 unfolds at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, the quarter-finals have delivered a thrilling spectacle, with snooker legends and rising stars battling for a coveted spot in the semi-finals. Among the most riveting matchups, John Higgins and Mark Williams find themselves locked in a tense showdown, while Ronnie O'Sullivan continues to assert his dominance in his quest for a record-breaking eighth world title.
In what has been a classic encounter, Higgins and Williams, both members of the famed 'Class of 92', are currently deadlocked at 8-8 after an intense night of snooker. Williams managed to claw back four frames during the session, including a nail-biting final frame that has set the stage for an exhilarating conclusion. As they prepare for the final session, the atmosphere is electric, with fans eager to see who will advance to the semi-finals.
On the other table, Ronnie O'Sullivan has taken a commanding 6-2 lead against Si Jiahui. The seven-time world champion showcased his experience and skill, pulling ahead with a stunning break of 121 in the eighth frame. Si, who reached the semi-finals in 2023, struggled with his form, missing crucial pots that allowed O'Sullivan to capitalize on his mistakes. The second session of their match is set to resume at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, and O'Sullivan looks poised to extend his lead further.
Meanwhile, Judd Trump is leading Luca Brecel 5-3 in their quarter-final clash. Trump's experience as the world number one has come into play as he navigates the pressures of high-stakes snooker, while Brecel, the 2023 champion, fights to regain momentum.
In a less favorable position, Chris Wakelin trails Zhao Xintong 12-4 after losing five consecutive frames. Despite taking the opening frame of the session, Wakelin has struggled to keep pace with Zhao, who has capitalized on his chances effectively. The second session of this match will take place at 2:30 PM, and Wakelin will need to mount a significant comeback to stay in contention.
The stakes are high as players vie for a spot in the semi-finals, with the prize money doubling to £100,000 for those who advance. The winner of the tournament will take home a whopping £500,000, adding an extra layer of motivation for each competitor.
As the quarter-finals progress, the snooker community is abuzz with excitement. The matches are not only a test of skill but also of mental fortitude as players navigate the pressures of the Crucible stage. With O'Sullivan, Higgins, and Williams all competing fiercely, the legacy of the 'Class of 92' continues to shine brightly, proving that age is just a number in the world of snooker.
Fans are encouraged to follow the action live on BBC iPlayer and various channels, ensuring they don't miss a moment of the drama that unfolds. As the tournament heads towards its climax, each frame becomes crucial, and the battle for the title intensifies.
The final sessions promise to be a showcase of high-quality snooker, with each player aiming to secure their place in history. Will O'Sullivan continue his march towards an eighth title? Can Higgins and Williams settle their rivalry once and for all? And will Zhao hold off Wakelin to advance? The answers await as the snooker world holds its breath.
