2024 World Snooker Championship: Experience Over Form at the Crucible, Says Former Champion Stuart Bingham

In a display reminiscent of his 2015 World Championship-winning form, Stuart Bingham showcased his class with a vintage performance, securing a convincing 10-5 victory over the formidable Gary Wilson in the first round of the 2024 World Snooker Championship at the Crucible Theatre.

Reflecting on his triumph, Bingham attributed his success to his wealth of experience in the tournament, emphasising the importance of remaining positive and focused. "You just learn to take the positives out of everything," Bingham remarked. "You can’t build on mistakes. I know I’ve been there and done it [win the world title], but you just need to learn to take the positives out of everything. He’s an in-form player but I didn’t look at him like that."

Indeed, Bingham's seasoned approach proved pivotal against Wilson, who has been one of the most in-form players on the tour this season, winning two ranking events. Despite Wilson's impressive run leading up to the championship, Bingham's composure and championship pedigree shone through, enabling him to seize control of the match from the outset.

Image credit: WST

Furthermore, Bingham highlighted the advantage gained from the additional gametime and preparation afforded to non-seeded players through the qualifying rounds. "I said at the qualifying, I could see nine seeds losing," Bingham revealed. "They’re going to be much sharper. Gary [Wilson] couldn’t settle today, and I was sharp from the off."

As of now, the World Snooker Championship has witnessed a surprising turn of events, with five out of the seven seeded players who completed their first-round matches falling short. Gary Wilson's defeat adds to the list, which already includes reigning champion Luca Brecel, Zhang Anda, Ali Carter, and Mark Selby, all now watching from the side-lines.

His opponent, Wilson also acknowledged the impact of going through qualifying post-match, conceding that it likely provided Bingham with an edge in match practice and confidence. "It’s bound to play a part," Wilson admitted. "If you’re playing well [in qualifying] and get through and you feel confident about your game, it’s going to hold you in good stead. It’ll get you over those little nerves of coming here and playing at the Crucible. It can be the difference."

Image credit: WST