Shaun Murphy secured his second Masters title with a 10-7 victory over world champion Kyren Wilson at Alexandra Palace. Despite leading 6-2 after the afternoon session, Murphy faced a fierce evening comeback from Wilson, who displayed his quality with breaks of 95, 78, and 65, winning five of the first seven frames to narrow the gap to 8-7. However, a missed long red by Wilson in the 16th frame allowed Murphy to regain control, crafting a crucial break of 55 before sealing the match with his fourth century of the final.
Murphy, now 42, expressed disbelief at his achievement, describing it as a moment he thought might never come again. Reflecting on his career, he acknowledged how losing to Mark Selby in the 2021 World Championship final left him doubting his ability to compete at the top level. Teaming up with Peter Ebdon reignited his self-belief and reminded him of his talent. "There’s still life in the old dog yet," he said, while also praising Wilson as a formidable competitor who pushed him to his limits.
Entering the tournament as the world number seven, Murphy was not among the favorites, having not won a Triple Crown event since his Masters triumph in 2015. However, his performance throughout the week earned him the Paul Hunter Trophy and the £350,000 prize. A standout moment of his campaign was a 147 maximum break against Mark Allen in the semi-finals, which also secured him a £15,000 prize for the highest break of the tournament.
Murphy’s success was marked by his aggressive and consistent scoring, with seven centuries across the event—four more than any other player. His collaboration with Ebdon appears to have revitalized his focus and confidence, enabling him to produce some of the best snooker of his career. The victory not only ends a 10-year wait for a Triple Crown title but also reaffirms Murphy's place among the sport's elite players.
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