(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Ronnie O’Sullivan Stages Thrilling Comeback to Reach Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters Semi-Finals
Riyadh, August 2025 –
Snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan produced another dramatic fight-back at the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters, coming from 5-3 down to defeat Kyren Wilson 6-5 and secure his place in the semi-finals. The win raises hopes of O’Sullivan claiming his first title in 17 months.
O’Sullivan’s 95th Ranking Semi-Final
The seven-time World Champion, who hasn’t won a ranking event since the World Grand Prix 2024, will face Chris Wakelin on Saturday night, just two wins away from the £500,000 top prize and his 24th major title.
O’Sullivan, 49, has begun the season with a new cue and renewed mindset, already producing dramatic 6-5 victories over Chang Bingyu and world number two Wilson in Riyadh.
Match Highlights
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After losing the opening frame, O’Sullivan responded with breaks of 88 and 116 to take a 2-1 lead.
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Wilson fired runs of 75 and 67 to go 3-2 ahead but missed a crucial shot in frame six, allowing O’Sullivan to level.
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Wilson surged to a 5-3 lead with breaks of 69 and 80, but O’Sullivan hit a 110 to halve the deficit.
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In the deciding frame, a tactical error from Wilson allowed O’Sullivan to clinch victory with a decisive red into the top corner.
“It was a tough match, I had to rely on Kyren to make a few mistakes,” said O’Sullivan. “I was trying to stay with him and make him work hard. Now I’m in the semis and I’d like to do even better.”
Chris Wakelin’s Rise
O’Sullivan’s semi-final opponent, Chris Wakelin, also won 6-5 over Barry Hawkins, securing his biggest career payday of £100,000. Wakelin, 33, is into his fifth ranking semi-final and first in a major tournament.
Wakelin dominated early with breaks of 61, 65, 79, and 86, building a 4-1 lead before Hawkins rallied to 4-4. Wakelin held his nerve to clinch the decider, highlighting his growing status on the tour.
“It was very difficult, Barry is one of the toughest players on the tour, so I’m thrilled to come through 6-5,” Wakelin said. “I know I’ve got the game to win the semi-final and that’s the most important thing.”
Looking Ahead
Fans can expect an electrifying semi-final showdown between the experienced O’Sullivan and the rising star Wakelin, with both players vying for a chance at the £500,000 top prize and the coveted Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters trophy.
