The World Open Snooker 2025 didn’t just deliver big breaks and dramatic frames — it told a story. A story of a sport in transition, where rising stars and battle-hardened veterans clashed in Yushan, China, for one of snooker’s most coveted prizes. With unexpected twists, emotional victories, and moments that will be replayed for years, the 2025 edition was far more than a tournament — it was a statement.
John Higgins — The Phoenix Rises Again
Few expected John Higgins, a man who first lifted a ranking trophy in the 1990s, to become the headline act in 2025. But at 49 years old, Higgins showed why class is permanent. His 10-6 victory over Joe O’Connor in the final wasn’t just another notch on his belt — it was the culmination of years of frustration, self-reflection, and an unrelenting desire to prove he still belongs.
For 1,462 days, Higgins hadn’t won a ranking event. He’d come close, always within touching distance, only to falter at the final hurdle. But in Yushan, something clicked. His trademark safety game was razor-sharp, his potting clinical, and his composure under pressure was reminiscent of the Higgins who once dominated the sport. When the final black disappeared, Higgins didn’t just win a trophy — he reminded the world why his name will echo in snooker halls long after he’s gone.
Joe O’Connor — The Dark Horse Who Shook the Giants
While Higgins’ victory stole the spotlight, the underdog story of Joe O’Connor captured hearts. Coming into the tournament, O’Connor wasn’t a household name outside diehard snooker circles. But after toppling defending champion Judd Trump with a fearless 5-2 win, O’Connor became the player no one wanted to face.
His game was built on courage — long pots attempted without hesitation, clever shot selections that belied his relative inexperience, and a fearless approach to snooker’s biggest names. Boxing workouts and business-class travel, he revealed, were his secret weapons — preparing his mind and body to perform at the highest level. Though the final proved a step too far, O’Connor left Yushan not just richer in prize money, but richer in reputation and self-belief.
Shaun Murphy’s Perfect Frame
It wouldn’t be a major tournament without a 147, and Shaun Murphy provided just that. In his second-round clash with Zhou Jinhao, Murphy pieced together a flawless maximum break — the tenth 147 of his glittering career.
It was a masterclass in cue ball control and precision, each shot flowing seamlessly into the next. For the seasoned fans, it was a reminder of Murphy’s genius. For the younger generation, it was proof that the “Magician” still has a few tricks up his sleeve.
A Tournament Shaped by Absences
As spectacular as the action was on the table, the 2025 World Open was also defined by who wasn’t there.
- Ronnie O’Sullivan, the sport’s biggest name, withdrew at the last moment due to ongoing health issues, leaving a void in the draw that no one player could fill.
- World Champion Luca Brecel also pulled out, citing illness.
- In a bizarre twist, Neil Robertson was forced to forfeit his qualifying match after a miscommunication over scheduling, a reminder that even seasoned pros can be undone by off-table chaos.
These absences cracked the tournament wide open, creating opportunities for fresh faces like O’Connor and Zak Surety to step into the limelight.
China’s Role in Snooker’s Global Shift
The World Open isn’t just another ranking event — it’s a symbol of snooker’s expanding global reach, and nowhere is that clearer than in China. The Yushan International Convention Center was buzzing throughout the week, packed with passionate fans eager to see their heroes — and their own stars — shine.
Though Ding Junhui and Zhou Yuelong fell short of deep runs, their presence drew massive crowds, underlining China’s growing status as snooker’s second home. With the sport’s future looking increasingly global, China’s influence is only set to grow.
Prize Money and Prestige
The £825,000 prize fund ensured there was plenty on the line beyond trophies and ranking points. For Higgins, the £175,000 winner’s cheque was a welcome bonus, but it was the ranking points that could prove most valuable as players jostle for position heading into the Tour Championship and, ultimately, the World Championship at the Crucible.
Legacy of the 2025 World Open
Every great tournament leaves a mark on the sport, and the 2025 World Open was no different. It reminded us that legends never fade quietly, that new stars can rise from nowhere, and that snooker — for all its precision and discipline — is still wildly unpredictable.
For John Higgins, it was vindication. For Joe O’Connor, it was a breakthrough. For Shaun Murphy, it was another jewel in his crown. And for snooker fans everywhere, it was a week of drama, brilliance, and unforgettable moments — the kind that make us all fall in love with the game over and over again.
