2025 World Snooker Championship: A Year of Surprises and Milestones

The 2025 World Snooker Championship, held at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield from April 19 to May 5, unfolded with a mix of stunning upsets, record-breaking performances, and heartfelt moments, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable editions in recent history.

Kyren Wilson Falls to the ‘Crucible Curse’

Kyren Wilson came into the tournament as the reigning champion, having clinched his first world title in 2024 with a win over Jak Jones. However, his title defense was cut short in dramatic fashion as he succumbed to the long-standing “Crucible curse”—a phenomenon where no first-time champion has ever retained the title since the event moved to the Crucible in 1977. Facing debutant Lei Peifan in the opening round, Wilson lost 10–9 in a nail-biting finish, becoming the 20th champion to fall to the curse.

Record-Breaking Century Breaks and a Historic Feat

The championship’s qualifying rounds delivered a record 143 century breaks, surpassing the previous high of 135 set in 2023. Among the standout moments, Welsh player Jackson Page etched his name into the history books by scoring two 147 maximum breaks in a single match against Allan Taylor. His achievement earned him a £147,000 bonus across the season’s Triple Crown events, along with a £10,000 reward for his outstanding qualifying performance.

Veteran John Higgins Delivers Grit and Emotion

Four-time world champion John Higgins proved his class and resilience once again, securing a 10–7 win over Joe O’Connor in the first round. Trailing 5–4 at one point, Higgins staged a comeback that included a brilliant 114 break in the penultimate frame. In a deeply emotional post-match interview, he opened up about personal struggles he faced off the table, including concerns about his father-in-law’s health and poignant memories of his late father—moments that visibly moved the snooker legend.

Tournament Structure and Prize Fund

The championship maintained its classic format, with best-of-19 frame matches leading up to the quarter-finals, followed by best-of-25 in the semi-finals, and culminating in a best-of-35 frame final. The total prize fund remained at £2,395,000, with the winner earning a substantial £500,000 payday—an incentive that continues to attract the sport’s elite to Sheffield each year.

A Championship to Remember

As the curtains closed on the 2025 World Snooker Championship, players, fans, and commentators alike reflected on a competition filled with drama, surprises, and unforgettable performances. From newcomers making bold statements to legends demonstrating lasting prowess, the tournament captured the unpredictable spirit and deep tradition of the sport.

The 2025 edition not only delivered on excitement and spectacle but also emphasized snooker’s growing appeal and the human stories that lie at its heart. As the snooker world looks ahead, this championship will be remembered as one that truly embodied the essence of the game.