Masters 2025: Ding Junhui Calls for ‘Triple Crown’ Event in China

The second day of action at the 2025 Masters delivered another classic, as two of snooker’s most accomplished players, Wales’ Mark Williams and China’s Ding Junhui, went head-to-head in a gripping encounter at Alexandra Palace. 

Williams, champion in 1998 and 2003, most recently reached the Masters final in 2023, where he fell to Judd Trump. Ding, on the other hand, claimed his Masters crown in 2011, marking a historic moment for Chinese snooker. 

Their last Triple Crown meeting occurred at the 2023 UK Championship, where Ding edged out Williams 6-5. This time, it was another tight contest, with revenge on the line for the Welshman.

Ding Wins a Thriller 

The match began as expected—balanced and fiercely contested. The players were level at 2-2 heading into the mid-session interval. The intensity only grew as they exchanged frames, leaving the score locked at 4-4.

A pivotal moment came in the ninth frame when Ding, leading with a solid break of 66, missed a routine black from the spot. Williams seized the opportunity, crafting a stunning counter-clearance to edge ahead 5-4, demonstrating nerves of steel.

However, Ding refused to crumble. With his back against the wall, he responded with sensational breaks of 76 and 90 in consecutive frames to clinch a 6-5 victory and book his place in the quarterfinals.

Can Ding Repeat History?

The result marked a historic moment: for the first time since 2011, all three members of the famed “Class of ’92” – Ronnie O’Sullivan, John Higgins, and Mark Williams – will not feature in the Masters quarterfinals. 

Interestingly, the last time this happened, Ding went on to win the tournament. Moreover, his victory ended a five-year drought at Alexandra Palace, his first win at the venue since 2019.

Speaking post-match, Ding relived memories of his 2011 triumph. 

“I wish I can do it again. I love this trophy. I have the one at home and always keep dreaming to win the trophy again. I like this place, especially since it moved here [Alexandra Palace] in London,” he told SportsBoom.com. 

Ding also reflected on a difficult period from 2022 to 2023, during which he failed to qualify for the Masters in consecutive years. He admitted that his desire to return to the top tier of snooker had negatively impacted his performances.

“I was trying too hard to get back into the [top] 16 because I want to play this tournament,” he shared, highlighting the importance of balancing effort with composure.

The Rise of Chinese Snooker

As a trailblazer for snooker in China, Ding’s impact on the sport extends far beyond his own achievements. With an academy in Sheffield bearing his name, he has helped nurture the next generation of Chinese talent. 

Among them are Si Jiahui, making his Masters debut later this week, and Wu Yize, who has already reached two ranking finals this season.

Commenting on their progress, Ding said, “I think they're working hard. They’ve got talent, they just need more experience. They let people put too much pressure on them though, so that’s not helpful.”

China’s First Triple Crown Event? 

The conversation turned to snooker’s growing global appeal, particularly with the emergence of events in Saudi Arabia. Ding weighed in on whether China deserves more ranking events and even questioned if one of snooker’s major tournaments should relocate to his home country.

He also addressed the expiring contract between World Snooker and the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, suggesting the World Championship should become a more global event.

“I think we need to look at other sports. The world championships will always be put in different countries. I know the contract is not finished yet [with the Crucible] but I really think they need to start asking the question, what are the people asking for?” he said.

“Whether it’s in China, Africa or wherever in the world,” he added, emphasising the need for snooker to embrace its global fanbase.

While acknowledging the Crucible’s historical significance, Ding questioned whether tradition should always take precedence over progress. 

“I know it’s an important tournament; I know it’s history and the people know this history. They don't need to be put history first all the time,” he concluded.

Looking Ahead

Ding’s victory over Mark Williams has reignited his Masters campaign and rekindled memories of his 2011 success. 

With confidence restored and the Chinese Dragon breathing fire once more, could this be the year Ding reclaims the title and adds another chapter to his remarkable career? Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as the tournament unfolds.