Masters 2025: Kyren Wilson Determined to Halt Judd Trump’s ‘Grand Slam’ Dream

The semi-final lineup for the 2025 Masters is set after an electrifying quarterfinal clash between defending world champion Kyren Wilson and 2023 Crucible King Luca Brecel at Alexandra Palace.

Brecel held a slight edge in their head-to-head record (5-4), but Wilson was determined to add the prestigious Masters trophy to his growing collection of titles.

The match lived up to the billing, delivering a spectacle for fans. Known for their attacking styles, both players showcased breathtaking potting and tactical brilliance, including some captivating safety exchanges. 

Ultimately, Wilson edged a gripping encounter 6-4, clinching victory with a dramatic 10-minute battle on the pink ball.

Career Defining Win

Speaking after the match, Wilson reflected on the significance of the win, calling it one of the most rewarding of his career due to the adversity he faced.

“It’s right up there as one of my best wins of my career for sure. Not necessarily because of performance, but because of the things that I had to deal with, my ankle being one. Very frustrating,” he told SportsBoom.com. 

The “Warrior” revealed a surprising source of his struggles: a foot injury sustained in an unexpected way.

“I couldn’t really put weight on it and stand how I would like too naturally and normally. Something I’ve never dealt with before. Never wore a pair of trainers to a snooker match, so let’s see how you can handle it, and yes, pleased that I managed to pass that test,” he explained, recounting how the injury occurred during his sleep when his foot became awkwardly caught in a tucked-in quilt.

Revenge From York

Wilson’s reward for overcoming Brecel is a blockbuster semi-final clash with world number one Judd Trump. The two have developed a fierce rivalry, and Wilson will be looking to avenge his recent UK Championship semi-final loss, where Trump triumphed 6-2 before claiming the title.

“It’s given me another sort of kick in the teeth to go right, okay, that’s not going to happen again,” Wilson said.

“Similar to what he’s probably done when I’ve beaten him recently, and I think that’s what’s made us both successful snooker players and both made us hungry for more success.”

Putting an End to the ‘Trump Slam’ 

Trump remains on track for the highly anticipated “Trump Slam” – becoming the first player to win all four of snooker’s major titles in a single season: the UK Championship, the Masters, the World Championship, and the newly introduced Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters.

Wilson, however, is determined to derail those plans.

“I want to put an end to it all,” he declared.

“I want to be winning the tournaments. It is nothing against Judd; even if it was another player in my way, I want to make what has already been a successful season even more successful. I’ve got my own goals, my own targets. I’ve just got to focus on my own job at hand.”

Wilson Recalls 2018 Masters Semi Win Over Trump

Wilson can draw confidence from their past encounters at Ally Pally. He memorably defeated Trump in the 2018 semi-finals, coming back from 5-2 down to secure a spot in his first and only Masters final.

Recalling that thrilling match, Wilson highlighted a pivotal moment that will remain fresh in his mind ahead of their rematch.

“Yeah, I remember one shot in particular. I’ve landed in behind a yellow, and everybody probably would’ve backed me to tuck up in behind that yellow – I think it was at five-three. And I’ve just nailed it into the top bag of the right. If I go out, I’m going out with a bang, and I’m going for it,” he said.

“It went in, and then I just found my rhythm and sort of kicked on from there. So that was one particular shot that sort of stands out in the memory bank.”

Wilson anticipates another classic encounter with Trump in tonight’s semi-final.

“It’ll be another great match to be a part of,” he concluded.