Kyren Wilson produced a thrilling display of nerve and attacking snooker to defeat Neil Robertson 6-5 in a dramatic final-frame decider, booking his place in the semi-finals of the Masters and keeping his title hopes alive at Alexandra Palace.
In a high-quality contest between the world numbers two and three, Wilson showcased his resilience and shot-making under pressure to overcome a spirited comeback from the former champion. The victory sets up a semi-final clash with China’s Wu Yize as Wilson continues his pursuit of a first Masters crown.
Wilson Dominates Early With Aggressive Scoring
Wilson began the match in emphatic fashion, immediately setting the tone with a superb break of 110 in the opening frame. His attacking intent and confidence around the table quickly placed Robertson under pressure, as the Englishman followed up with another century and two half-centuries to surge into a commanding 4-1 lead.
During this opening phase, Wilson controlled the pace of the match with precise cue-ball positioning and fearless long potting, repeatedly capitalising on Robertson’s uncharacteristic errors. His ability to convert early chances into heavy scoring visits appeared to put him firmly in control.
Robertson Stages Remarkable Comeback
Despite a sluggish start, Robertson demonstrated the champion’s mentality that has defined his career. The Australian gradually found his rhythm and momentum, beginning his revival with a scrappy but crucial fourth frame that shifted the energy of the contest.
From there, Robertson produced a devastating run of snooker, compiling back-to-back centuries followed by a fluent break of 65. Winning four consecutive frames, he overturned Wilson’s lead to move 5-4 ahead, silencing the crowd and placing immense pressure on his opponent.
Robertson’s resurgence was built on clinical potting and improved safety play, reminding everyone why he remains one of the most feared competitors in the sport.
Wilson Shows Grit in Grandstand Finish
Refusing to buckle, Wilson responded in style when it mattered most. In front of a packed Alexandra Palace crowd, he crafted a magnificent break of 111 to force a deciding frame, regaining his composure with a display of controlled aggression.
The final frame delivered drama befitting the occasion. Wilson produced a vital long red under extreme pressure after being snookered behind the top cushion, a shot that proved pivotal in swinging the frame in his favour. A determined break of 42 eventually carried him over the line, sealing victory in a contest that will be remembered as one of the classics of the tournament.
After the match, Wilson praised the quality of the encounter, acknowledging Robertson’s threat and expressing satisfaction with the way he managed the pressure during the closing stages.
Wilson’s Revival Continues After Difficult Season
The win keeps Wilson firmly on course for a maiden Masters title, a notable achievement given the challenges he has faced throughout the 2025–26 season. Both on and off the table, the Englishman has endured a turbulent campaign, including a period where he admitted his confidence had been severely tested.
Having been forced to change the cue he used during his 2024 World Championship triumph after it was damaged in an unusual accident, Wilson appears to have finally found a reliable replacement. His performance against Robertson suggested a renewed belief and fluency that had been missing earlier in the season.
The manner of victory also highlighted Wilson’s growing mental strength, particularly his decision to play an attacking shot rather than opt for safety when momentum threatened to swing away from him.
Wu Yize Cruises Into Semi-Finals
Earlier in the day, Wu Yize delivered a dominant performance to secure his place in the semi-finals, dismantling fellow Chinese player Xiao Guodong with a ruthless 6-0 victory.
Wu opened the match with a brilliant break of 112 and maintained relentless pressure throughout, adding further runs of 93, 60, 84 and 97 to complete a comprehensive whitewash. Despite not being entirely faultless, the 22-year-old’s potting power proved far too strong for Xiao, who struggled to settle and failed to recover from early missed opportunities.
The performance underlined Wu’s credentials as one of the sport’s brightest emerging talents. Already a ranking-event winner this season, he now stands just one match away from becoming one of the few players to win the Masters on debut.
Wu later described playing at the Masters as a lifelong dream and said his focus was simply on enjoying the moment and delivering his best snooker.
Mouth-Watering Semi-Final Ahead
Wilson’s clash with Wu promises to be a compelling semi-final, pitting experience and resilience against youth and explosive scoring. With both players arriving in confident form, the contest is shaping up as one of the highlights of the tournament.
For Wilson, the victory over Robertson could mark a turning point in his season. For Wu, it is another opportunity to announce himself on snooker’s biggest invitational stage.
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