Neil Robertson yllätti Ronnie O’Sullivanin Saudi Masters -finaalissa huikealla trillerillä ja nousi takaisin snookerin huipulle
In Saudi Arabia, under the dazzling lights and pressure-filled atmosphere of the Masters final, Neil Robertson reminded the snooker world that his brilliance still shines. The Australian edged past Ronnie O’Sullivan, the sport’s most iconic figure, in a breathtaking 10–9 epic that had every twist and turn a fan could dream of. Drama, near-impossible comebacks, and an edge-of-your-seat decider made it a final destined for the history books.
“Bigger Than a World Title”
For Robertson, now 43, this wasn’t just another trophy to add to his cabinet. After the match, he boldly declared the victory even sweeter than his 2010 World Championship triumph — a statement that reveals just how much this night meant to him. For years, questions lingered whether he could still topple giants like O’Sullivan on the sport’s grandest stages. This time, his snooker did the talking.
The win delivered a staggering £500,000 payday and vaulted him back into the world’s top three. Just months ago, he was battling a slide into the mid-20s of the rankings — evidence of how significant this resurgence is.
A Final of Pure Theatre
The narrative seemed clear early: Robertson stormed ahead 7–2, playing with freedom and authority. But against O’Sullivan, no lead is safe. Frame by frame, the Rocket chipped away, his momentum snowballing until he found himself 9–8 up and within reach of yet another title.
Yet Robertson summoned composure when it mattered most. Producing a sublime 101 break in the deciding frame, he stunned the crowd and silenced doubts in one stroke. In that moment, the final became more than a trophy; it became a statement of resilience.
O’Sullivan’s Response
Defeat is rare and always stings for O’Sullivan, but his gracious response was telling. He acknowledged that Robertson had been the stronger player when it mattered. Nevertheless, he left his own mark on the tournament: in his semifinal, O’Sullivan produced a feat never seen before — two perfect 147s in the same main-draw event. At 48, he continues to redefine what longevity at the highest level looks like.
The Road Back
For Robertson, the triumph represents more than sporting skill; it reflects a rebuilt mindset. Just a year ago, he was floundering at 28th in the world, struggling with motivation. Seeking help from a sports psychologist, he rediscovered mental toughness and discipline. Slowly, he pieced his game — and confidence — back together.
“No matter how tough things get,” Robertson explained, “what matters is how you respond. Refuse to stay down.”
A Rivalry Renewed
This result injects new vigor into snooker’s landscape. O’Sullivan remains its centerpiece, but Robertson has re-inserted himself into the upper tier. Alongside Judd Trump, the trio sets up tantalizing storylines heading into the World Championship.
For Robertson, leaving Saudi Arabia means more than fortune or silverware — it’s confirmation that his journey isn’t done. There are still chapters to be written, rivalries to resume, and battles to win.
The Essentials
- Neil Robertson defeated Ronnie O’Sullivan 10–9 in the Saudi Masters final.
- Robertson once led 7–2, only to see O’Sullivan pull ahead 9–8 before clawing back with a flawless 101 break.
- He called it the greatest win of his career — surpassing even his world title.
- O’Sullivan made history with two 147 breaks in his semifinal.
- Robertson’s mental strength and discipline were pivotal in his resurgence.
If you were watching: what moment defined it for you? Robertson’s early dominance, O’Sullivan’s thunderous comeback, or the Aussie’s ice-cold decider under pressure?
