Wakelin Claims Scottish Open Title in Dominating 9-2 Victory
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A stunning display of skill and resilience saw England’s Chris Wakelin crowned champion of the Scottish Open, defeating Chang Bingyu 9-2 in Edinburgh on Sunday. The 33-year-old secured his second career ranking title and a £100,000 prize, capping off a remarkable run that included an eight-frame winning streak.
Wakelin overcame an early deficit, trailing 2-1 to his Chinese opponent, before seizing control of the afternoon session. He ultimately proved too strong for the 23-year-old Bingyu, who struggled to mount a comeback.
From Underdog to Champion: Wakelin’s Scottish Open Triumph
The final began with Bingyu establishing an early lead, but Wakelin quickly recalibrated. He leveled the match at 2-2 and then embarked on an extraordinary run, winning eight consecutive frames to secure a decisive victory. Throughout the match, Wakelin demonstrated exceptional form, compiling seven breaks of 50 or more points. This consistent scoring pressure ultimately overwhelmed Bingyu’s attempts to regain momentum.
“When we arrived here I had no expectations at all, and the last few weeks we’ve had some issues at home,” Wakelin told TNT Sports.
Battling Adversity On and Off the Table
Wakelin’s victory is particularly noteworthy given the challenges he faced leading up to the tournament. He revealed he was recovering from pneumonia just last week, adding another layer of complexity to his already demanding schedule. He also shared that his one-year-old daughter, Mia, was experiencing the discomfort of teething, presenting additional personal challenges.
Despite these obstacles, Wakelin remained focused and delivered a performance that showcased his mental fortitude and unwavering determination. His ability to compartmentalize personal difficulties and perform at the highest level underscores his status as a rising star in the world of professional snooker. This win solidifies Wakelin’s position among the elite players and signals a promising future for the English cueist.
