Mark Williams has said the run of the ball cost him his place in the Masters as the Welshman was defeated by Ding Junhui.
The three-time world champion joined John Higgins in exiting the Alexandra Palace showcase at the first hurdle, losing 6-5 to China’s Ding after a tense three hours of action that saw both players grow into the match after a scrappy opening. But Williams was left frustrated by his luck on the table, saying that his opponent apologised to him more than 10 times after fortunate moments. When the BBC’s Shabnam Younus-Jewell suggested that the two hadn’t played their best snooker, he bit back: “I disagree with that, after the interval I thought that we were both excellent.
“He had one hell a lot of run of the ball, that’s the fine margins. I think the run of the ball cost me, but I’ve had plenty of run in my time. I’ve lost count of how many times he was sticking his hand up to say sorry. He must’ve done it at least 10 or 11 times. But that’s the game, you’ve still got to make the breaks and best of luck to him.”
Williams was then asked if he was proud of his performance, replying: “I’m not proud, it’s just a game of snooker. I tried my best, it was a great game and a great venue. The reception I had coming in was unbelievable, let’s hope I can get back next year. It’s the best venue we play in, it will be a sad time if I don’t get back here again.”
Ding’s performance meanwhile earned plaudits from Scottish hero Stephen Hendry, who said: “He showed great composure in those breaks in the last two frames. Okay the red were all over the place and it wasn’t the most difficult breaks in the world. But at that stage, when the pressure is on, nothing is easy. You need composure.
“That’s why they are the best players in the world, under pressure they are supposed to produce. It was incredible, the last hour or so was top drawer. Mark will be disappointed at losing. It was a fabulous match.”