Is Trump Really Only at 10% After Sweeping Zhao Aside to Reach the Final?

In a remarkable display of skill and resilience, world number one Judd Trump secured a spot in the final of the 2021 Champion of Champions tournament, overcoming Zhao Xintong with a convincing 6-2 victory. Despite expressing that he was only playing at "10%" of his potential, Trump demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, winning six frames consecutively after trailing 2-0. This win positions him to vie for his first title since the 2024 UK Championship.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Judd Trump has displayed remarkable tenacity and skill as he progresses to the final of the Champion of Champions. After a shaky start against Zhao Xintong, the current world champion, Trump turned the tide with impressive breaks, showcasing his potential to reclaim form heading into the final match. As he prepares to face either Mark Selby or Neil Robertson, the outcome of this final will be pivotal in Trump's quest for further titles.

Key takeaways

• Jud Trump won six consecutive frames to defeat Zhao Xintong 6-2.
• Trump initially fell behind 2-0 before rallying to claim victory.
• This is Trump's first final since the 2024 UK Championship.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey to this final has been marked by significant events:

• 2021: Judd Trump reaches the final of the Champion of Champions after defeating Zhao Xintong.
• 2024: Trump wins the UK Championship, marking his last title before this current event.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Trump's performance against Zhao Xintong was notable for his comeback after losing the first two frames. He managed to control the match effectively, scoring heavily with breaks of 68, 73, 77, and 66, which highlights his capacity to perform under pressure.

What was already established

Prior to this event, Trump had faced challenges in recent tournaments, winning only one of his last five finals. His comments about struggling with a new titanium tip also indicated that he has been working to adapt his game.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For snooker fans in the UK, Trump's success is a source of national pride. The visibility of the Champion of Champions tournament boosts interest in the sport, potentially leading to increased viewership and support for future events.

Businesses and jobs

The success of players like Trump can positively impact the snooker-related businesses, including merchandise sales, ticket sales for future events, and local businesses near venues hosting matches.

Policy and regulation

The sport continues to thrive under various governing bodies, which promote events like the Champion of Champions and ensure professional standards. The success of these events can influence future funding and support for grassroots snooker initiatives.

Numbers that matter

• 6: The number of frames Trump won in a row to secure his victory.
• 2: The initial frames won by Zhao Xintong before Trump's comeback.
• 1: The number of finals Trump has won out of his last five attempts leading up to this event.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Champion of Champions: An invitation-only snooker tournament featuring the best players in the world.
• Break: The number of points scored in a single visit to the table without missing a shot.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Trump will focus on preparing for the final match, analysing his opponent and refining his technique, particularly with his new tip.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Depending on the outcome of the final, Trump may look to regain momentum in upcoming tournaments, aiming to secure more titles and enhance his ranking.

Signals to watch

• Performance in the final against either Mark Selby or Neil Robertson.
• Future tournament entries and results, particularly in major championships.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay updated on Trump's performance through reputable sports news outlets.
• Consider attending future events to support local and national players.

Don’t

• Underestimate the impact of recent changes to equipment on player performance.
• Neglect to follow the broader implications for snooker in the UK.

Checklist

• Monitor Judd Trump's matches in upcoming tournaments.
• Follow news related to snooker regulations and player updates.
• Look out for ticket sales for local snooker events.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Trump's performance is commendable, the ongoing adaptation to new equipment can introduce risks of inconsistency. Moreover, Zhao Xintong's early success in the match suggests that competition remains fierce, and any future matches could yield unexpected outcomes.

Bottom line

Judd Trump's recent victory against Zhao Xintong highlights his ability to perform under pressure and adapt to challenging circumstances. As he prepares for the final, his journey offers valuable insights into the resilience required in professional sports.

FAQs

What does Judd Trump's victory mean for his career?

Trump's win at the Champion of Champions could signify a turning point, boosting his confidence and performance in future tournaments.

Who will Trump face in the final?

Trump will face either Mark Selby or Neil Robertson in the final, both of whom are formidable opponents.

How has Trump adapted his game recently?

Trump has changed his cue tip from brass to titanium, which he indicates has affected his comfort and performance on the table.