Mark Williams Nears Historic Win at 2025 Xi’an Grand Prix
Mark Williams is on the brink of a historic win at the 2025 Xi’an Grand Prix. Leading 7-1 against Shaun Murphy, he is just three frames away from making history. If successful, Williams would become the oldest winner of a ranking event at 50 years and 206 days.
The Record at Stake
Should he seal the victory, Williams will surpass the current record held by Ray Reardon. Reardon won the Professional Players Tournament in 1982, when he was 50 years and 14 days old. This historical achievement illustrates Williams’s significant longevity in the sport.
Ranking Finals and Titles
This final marks Williams’s 44th appearance in a ranking event. He is aiming for his 27th ranking title, which would place him just one title behind Steve Davis, who has 28 titles. Ronnie O’Sullivan leads with 41 ranking event victories.
Unique Milestone
Williams has the chance to become the first player ever to win a tour event in his teens, 20s, 30s, 40s, and now in his 50s. This feat underscores his remarkable consistency throughout his career.
Murphy’s Challenge
Shaun Murphy, at 43 years old, is looking to defend his title after winning the British Open in Cheltenham last month. Despite his impressive form leading into the final, Murphy has faced challenges against a highly efficient Williams.
Errors made during the initial frames have cost Murphy dearly, allowing Williams to take a commanding lead. As the final unfolds, all eyes will be on Williams, poised to carve his name into the annals of snooker history at the Xi’an Grand Prix.
