On October 26th Beijing time, the Northern Ireland Open wrapped up with Lisowski winning the final frame to upset the post-80s star Trump 9-8 and claim the championship. Consequently, the updated world rankings show no change in the top six, Trump remains first as runner-up, Mark Allen advanced to the semifinals surpassing Ding Junhui to seventh, Ding slipped to eighth, and Si Jiahui returned to the top sixteen. China continues to have five players in the top sixteen!

Lisowski, a notable player born in the 90s, had been struggling recently, dropping out of the top sixteen to 29th place. However, he suddenly exploded in this tournament, overcoming opponents to reach the final. He defeated Selby and Kyren Wilson along the way, proving his excellent form. In the final, he faced Trump, who had handed him three consecutive losses before. After an intense battle that went to a deciding frame, Trump missed an incredibly simple red ball — a huge gift. Lisowski gratefully accepted and won the frame, securing his first ranking event title 9-8. This victory marks a major breakthrough and a sweet reward after hardship. The championship also helped Lisowski overcome his mental barriers. He earned £100,000 in prize money, but his ranking only improved slightly, moving up five spots to 24th!

This season, Trump reached a ranking final for the first time. Although he did not win the title, it shows his form has returned, and he may continue to compete for more championships in the future. After earning £4.5k as runner-up, Trump remains firmly at the top of the rankings with a large lead. Ding Junhui, who did not participate in the Northern Ireland Open, was overtaken in the rankings. Mark Allen’s semifinal appearance pushed him past Ding, causing Ding to fall to eighth, but he remains the highest-ranked Chinese player!

Among other Chinese players, five remain in the top sixteen: Xiao Guodong, Zhao Xintong, Zhang Anda, and Si Jiahui. Currently, Xiao Guodong and Zhao Xintong hold steady positions, while Zhang Anda and Si Jiahui face the risk of dropping out of the top sixteen and need strong performances in upcoming tournaments!
Written by / Sports Novel