UK Championship 2025: Selby Beats Trump – Title Win
- Mark Selby began the match strongly, quickly establishing a 5-0 led against defending champion Judd Trump.
- A controversial decision by referee Olivier Marteel initially awarded Selby a free ball during the 11th frame.
- Subsequent television replays and analysis from six-time world champion steve Davis suggested that marteel's initial judgement may have been correct, adding to the tension of the match.
Selby Claims UK Championship Title, Defeating Trump in Tense Finale
Table of Contents
Early Dominance and a Controversial Call
Mark Selby began the match strongly, quickly establishing a 5-0 led against defending champion Judd Trump. Trump narrowed the gap to 6-2, but the contest took a dramatic turn when play resumed.
A controversial decision by referee Olivier Marteel initially awarded Selby a free ball during the 11th frame. Though, selby, after discussion with Trump, agreed that it was not a legitimate free ball – a ruling that allowed a player to nominate a ball when snookered after a foul.
Momentum Shifts and a Nervy Finish
Trump capitalized on the situation, fluking a red and then constructing his first century of the match, shifting the momentum in his favor. Despite this, Selby remained resolute and continued his pursuit of the £250,000 top prize.
A break of 91 extended Selby’s lead to 8-5,but he experienced some nervy moments,missing several routine pots. Trump seized the opportunity, mounting a comeback with runs of 125 and 55, narrowing the score to 8-7.
Selby secures Victory
In a tense finale, Selby and Trump traded frames before Selby ultimately secured his victory with a composed break of 69.This win marks Selby’s first UK title as 2016 and the 25th ranking event victory of his career.