The numbers
Thepchaiya Un-Nooh clinched a remarkable victory in the World Open final, defeating seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan with a score of 10-7. This win is particularly notable as Un-Nooh made a maximum 147 break during the match, showcasing his exceptional skill and determination.
Un-Nooh’s journey to the title was not without challenges; he faced a daunting 4-0 deficit before mounting an impressive comeback against O’Sullivan. “I just wanted to try my best because I didn’t know when I might be in another final again,” Un-Nooh stated, reflecting on the pressure of the moment.
O’Sullivan, who recorded the highest break of the tournament at 153, acknowledged Un-Nooh’s performance, saying, “I just want to say well done to Thepchaiya who played unbelievable snooker.” This final not only highlights Un-Nooh’s talent but also emphasizes the competitive spirit that defines professional snooker.
This victory marks Un-Nooh’s first major title since his win at the 2019 Shoot Out, making it a significant milestone in his career. He earned £175,000 for his triumph, while O’Sullivan received £75,000 for his highest break achievement.
The World Open has a rich history, and the upcoming 2026 edition is already generating buzz, with the tournament scheduled to run from March 16 to March 22. The total prize money for this event will be £825,000, indicating the growing prestige and financial stakes in the sport.
As the snooker community reflects on this thrilling final, observers are eager to see how Un-Nooh’s victory will impact his future performances and the competitive landscape of snooker. The semi-finals of the 2026 World Open are set for March 21, with the final scheduled for March 22, promising more exciting matches ahead.
Un-Nooh’s triumph over O’Sullivan not only adds to his accolades but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring players in the sport. “This is my first time winning a major event and this is the biggest prize of my career,” he expressed, encapsulating the significance of his achievement.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full implications of this match on future tournaments, but the excitement surrounding snooker continues to build as fans anticipate what comes next in this dynamic sport.