Ronnie O’Sullivan’s Unprecedented Dual 147s Secure Spot in Saudi Arabia Masters Final
Two Maximum Breaks: A Rare Snooker Milestone
In an remarkable exhibition of precision and mastery, Ronnie O’Sullivan achieved the rare feat of compiling two maximum breaks within a single professional match.This accomplishment makes him only the second player to record dual 147s in one contest, following Welsh talent Jackson Page’s recent success during World Championship qualifiers.
The 49-year-old Englishman began his semi-final against Chris Wakelin at the Saudi Arabia Masters with a flawless 147-the first he has made as his last at the English Open in 2018.Later, with the score tied at three frames each, O’Sullivan produced another perfect clearance to notch his seventeenth career maximum break and claim a £147,000 bonus awarded for multiple maximums across major tournaments such as the UK Championship, masters, World Championship, and this event.
Exemplary Performance Beyond Perfect Breaks
O’Sullivan’s dominance extended well beyond thes two historic breaks. He also compiled impressive runs of 134 and 142 points during his commanding display over Wakelin. His sharp potting skills combined with strategic shot selection culminated in a convincing 6-3 victory that propelled him into the final against Neil Robertson.
A Record-breaking Veteran
Nearing his fiftieth birthday this December, Ronnie set another benchmark by becoming the oldest player ever to register an official professional maximum break. His sustained excellence over decades continues to captivate snooker enthusiasts worldwide.
The Final Showdown: Ronnie O’Sullivan vs Neil Robertson
Neil Robertson earned his place in Saturday’s final by overcoming Elliot Slessor with an identical scoreline of 6-3. The Australian world champion showcased consistent form throughout this tournament and reached his thirty-ninth ranking final-a testament to his enduring elite status on tour.
“This is easily our biggest event before the World Championship,” Robertson commented after securing victory. “earning enough ranking points here means I’ve already qualified for my main season goal-the Tour Championship-wich takes some pressure off upcoming events.”
Elliot Slessor: Emerging Talent Making Waves
Despite falling short against Robertson, Elliot Slessor impressed many observers. Ranked twenty-ninth globally before this tournament, he is poised for upward movement thanks to career-best prize earnings and notable performances like a high break of 92 during their match.
Mental Strength Amidst Intense Competition
“When it was tied three-all after my first maxi and other big breaks like a 142 followed by clearing seventy points straight away-I honestly thought I might lose,” reflected O’Sullivan on Wakelin’s resilience.
“Chris is incredibly tough-not just solid but possessing that extra edge which makes him arduous to beat.”
Robertson shared similar insights about facing familiar opponents under pressure:
“Playing someone you practice heavily with can be tricky-there are usually high scores but also scrappy frames due to tense moments.”
The Anticipated Finale: Clash Between Two Snooker Titans
This eagerly awaited final promises exhilarating snooker as both players bring vast experience coupled with recent peak performances into contention for one of snooker’s most prestigious titles at the Saudi Arabia Masters.
