Wu Yize Seizes Control of World Championship Final Against Shaun Murphy

Wu Yize on the Brink of Snooker History at the Crucible

Wu Yize delivered a masterclass of long-range potting and composed snooker to establish a commanding 10-7 lead over veteran Shaun Murphy at the end of Sunday's second session in the World Snooker Championship final. The result puts the young Chinese star firmly in the driving seat as the best-of-35 contest heads into its decisive final day.

A Historic Achievement Within Reach

At just 22 years old, Wu stands on the verge of becoming the second-youngest player in history to claim the coveted world title at the Crucible. Remarkably, he is three months younger than Murphy was when the Englishman lifted the trophy back in 2005. Should Wu seal victory on Monday, only Stephen Hendry — who became world champion at 21 in 1990 — would hold the record for a younger champion. Wu would also become the second consecutive Chinese world champion, following Zhao Xintong's historic triumph.

A Journey Rooted in Dedication

Wu's path to this moment is one of genuine sacrifice and ambition. At just 16 years old, he left his home city of Lanzhou alongside his father and relocated to Sheffield, dedicating himself entirely to the sport he loved. That commitment now appears to be paying dividends on the grandest stage the game has to offer.

Sunday's Session: Wu Dominates, Murphy Fights Back

The evening session resumed with the scores locked at 4-4 following an afternoon that was briefly disrupted when a female spectator leapt over a front-row barrier before being removed by referee Rob Spencer and security personnel.

Wu wasted no time in establishing control once play resumed, stringing together breaks of 82 and 103 to move two frames clear. Murphy, displaying the kind of resilience that has defined his career, responded with a 72 to keep himself in contention — but he visibly struggled to contain his younger opponent's relentless aggression.

The 43-year-old Murphy, who is chasing a record for the longest gap between world titles, had previously acknowledged that Wu completely outplayed him during their Masters encounter in January. Despite that, Murphy had clawed back from 3-0 down earlier in the final, demonstrating he still possesses the quality to turn the tide.

Wu continued to press, using his exceptional long-potting ability to compile runs of 89 and 66, claiming three of the next four frames. The session was not without its interruptions — a spectator was escorted from the venue after a phone alarm sounded at a critical moment during the 15th frame.

A Stunning Final Frame Seals the Session

Murphy rallied again in the 16th frame, capitalising on an extraordinary plant shot to reduce the deficit to 9-7 and hint at a potential comeback. However, Wu delivered the most telling blow of the session in the final frame. With Murphy apparently in control of the table, Wu executed a trademark long red under intense pressure and went on to compile a brilliant 91 break, securing the frame and heading into the overnight interval with a healthy three-frame cushion.

Expert Reaction

Snooker legends watching from the commentary box were full of praise — and caution — in equal measure.

Stephen Hendry, seven-time world champion, acknowledged the challenge that now faces Murphy:

"It's harder trailing overnight, but Shaun has the kind of game that can win bunches of frames very quickly. Wu just has to be careful he doesn't think he's already won it."

Steve Davis, six-time world champion, was equally measured in his assessment:

"There is still a long way to go, but being in front overnight is all you can ask for. From Shaun's perspective, he has to hope Wu gives him more chances. Wu is scaring the life out of everyone he plays — it's going to be a tough day for Shaun Murphy."

What Comes Next

The World Championship final resumes on Monday at 13:00 BST, broadcast live on BBC Two. Murphy will need to summon a remarkable turnaround to deny Wu Yize a place in snooker history, while Wu will be eager to close out what would be a defining moment in his young career.