Vafaei Stuns Judd Trump In Crucible Thriller

TEHRAN: (Web Desk) – Iran’s Hossein Vafaei produced a stunning upset by defeating world number one Judd Trump 13-12 to reach the quarter-finals of the World Snooker Championship for the first time. The gripping contest took place at the iconic Crucible Theatre in Sheffield.

The 31-year-old, ranked 32nd in the world and Iran’s first professional snooker player, held his composure in a tense decider, sealing victory with a brilliant 91 break. He had earlier forced the final frame with a superb century break of 106.

Trump, the 2019 world champion, initially looked in control, extending his lead to 10-7 and later moving within one frame of victory at 12-11. However, Vafaei mounted an impressive comeback, compiling crucial breaks of 53, 55, and 77 to level the match and push it to a dramatic finish.

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The defeat could impact Trump’s position at the top of the world rankings, while Vafaei continues his historic run. He is now set to face Wu Yize in the quarter-finals, after the Chinese player eliminated four-time world champion Mark Selby.

After the match, Vafaei expressed confidence and pride in his performance, saying he thrives under pressure and has long dreamed of competing at the Crucible. He also praised Trump as both a close friend and a tough competitor, with the two sharing a warm embrace as the crowd gave Vafaei a standing ovation.