World Snooker Championship 2026

The Crucible Curse lives on .

For all the hype of the opening two rounds, once things start to near the Business End, then you start to notice how negligible the stats are. Ding's record at Sheffield is far worse than Barry Hawkins - but we can see who's actually the better player. Now we have Mark Allen looking a favourite for a (belated) first Final - unless Wu Yize gets bize.

Robertson and Higgins would both welcome another final - and both of the quality to make it - but I can already expect either folding before the Bad Magic Man

At least it's one down, one to go, and the travesty of a Hawkins v Tubbs final has been averted. I'll have someone to support in the final. Wu Yize won the battle of the dark horses, and I'll probably back him, but anyone except Tubbs and I'll be happy.

Tubbs will have the more awkward semi-final, playing against either Scottish granite or the grinder from down under. Hopefully one of them will put Tubbs through the mill, then knock him out.

Semi Finals - best of 33 frames

John Higgins (5) 4-4 Shaun Murphy (8) (Resumes Friday at 10am)


Wu Yize (10) 6-2 Mark Allen (14)
(Resumes Friday at 2.30pm)

John Higgins toughed it out to once again convert a 7-9 deficit into a win.
He truly is a granite competitor.

An absorbing match against Shaun Murphy now awaits which for the neutrals will make for a fascinating watch. I appreciate though that there may not be many neutrals on here regarding this match . Murphy is striking the ball really well. Higgins is hanging in and finding his best stuff when he needs it.
Could go very close indeed.

The other semi final is equally intriguing.
Wu Yize stepping out into a one table Crucible cauldron for the first time with his free flowing brand of happy snooker.
Mark Allen perhaps sensing opportunity like never before. Previous experience of the one table set up and a sound all round game. But will the battle scars of previous semi final defeat affect him?

damm ive got to support higgins now

i tolerate him as a player after the match fixing stuff but rather have him win than tubs

^Think we all share the same idea as you mate
Don't mind who wins it as long as it is not Tubbs

Can't stand Shaun Murphy or John Higgins. One has to win. I lose. I'll go with Mr Tumble, least he's not a cheat.

rather have a cheat than a cunt

do love the idea that the class of 92 still winning titles

Actually just seen that if Jon Higgins wins he will be the oldest to win it at 50

Ronnie at 46 is oldest now beating Ray Reardon who was 45

When Dennis Taylor said Robbo hadn't reached the semis since 2014, it maybe telegraphed he wasn't going to break that run this time.

A contrast of semis between former champs on one side, and wannabes on the other.