Lisowski Reaches Welsh Open Final After Thrilling Comeback Against Higgins
Llandudno, Wales – Jack Lisowski has secured his place in the final of the BetVictor Welsh Open, overcoming a formidable challenge from four-time world champion John Higgins in a dramatic semi-final encounter. The 34-year-old Lisowski battled back from 3-1 down to defeat the veteran Scot 6-5, setting up a Sunday showdown with fellow Englishman Barry Hawkins. The victory marks Lisowski’s first appearance in a Welsh Open final and a significant milestone in his career, earning him a substantial £150,000 bonus according to World Snooker Tour.
The match, played in front of a passionate crowd in Llandudno, was a captivating display of skill and resilience from both players. Higgins, renowned for his tactical prowess and experience, initially appeared to be in control, establishing a lead in the early frames. However, Lisowski demonstrated remarkable composure and attacking flair, turning the tide with a series of impressive breaks and a determined fightback. This Welsh Open final appearance represents a breakthrough for Lisowski, who previously claimed his first ranking title at the Northern Ireland Open in October, defeating Judd Trump.
A Stunning Reversal of Fortune
Lisowski’s comeback began after the interval, where he unleashed a relentless attacking display. He won three consecutive frames, holding Higgins scoreless during that stretch and seized a 4-3 lead. A missed black for a century didn’t deter him, as he soon followed up with a sublime ton, delighting the Welsh crowd. The match saw Lisowski produce breaks of 95, 79, 138, 58, and a crucial closing break of 78. As reported by the BBC, Lisowski described the feeling of playing Higgins as akin to facing “a god,” acknowledging the immense pressure and respect he holds for his opponent.
Higgins, 50, responded with an 82 break to level the contest, but Lisowski maintained his momentum, ultimately holding his nerve in the deciding frame. The 22nd-ranked Lisowski, 16 places below Higgins in the world rankings, proved his ability to perform under pressure and overcome a seasoned champion. The victory underscores Lisowski’s growing confidence and potential to challenge for major titles in the future.
Hawkins Awaits in Sunday’s Final
Lisowski’s opponent in the final will be Barry Hawkins, who earlier secured his place with a 6-3 victory over Gary Wilson. The final, scheduled for Sunday at 13:00 GMT, promises to be a compelling contest between two talented English left-handers. Both players possess a strong attacking game and a proven track record in major tournaments. SnookerWins.co.uk highlights the match as a significant breakthrough for Lisowski, marking his first ranking final since the 2022 Turkish Masters.
Hawkins, a consistent performer on the professional circuit, will be looking to add another ranking title to his impressive resume. He has previously reached the final of the World Championship in 2013, demonstrating his ability to compete at the highest level. The clash between Lisowski and Hawkins is expected to draw a large audience, both in the Venue Cymru arena and through television and online streaming platforms.
Lisowski’s Perspective on the Victory
Following his semi-final triumph, Lisowski shared his thoughts with BBC Sport, expressing his satisfaction with his performance and his ability to turn the match around. “I knew I was playing well. I turned the game around after the interval and I was just thinking ‘keep it going’,” he said. He also acknowledged the impact of the supportive crowd, stating, “The crowd was amazing. I felt at 4-3 up, ‘I’m playing really good’, but you’re playing John Higgins.” Lisowski’s ability to remain focused and composed under pressure was a key factor in his victory, allowing him to execute his game plan effectively and capitalize on opportunities.
The Welsh Open has a rich history, with the Ray Reardon Trophy awarded to the champion. John Higgins was aiming to add to his four previous Welsh Open titles, but Lisowski’s determined performance denied him that opportunity. The tournament continues to be a popular event on the snooker calendar, attracting top players from around the world and providing a platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills.
The final between Jack Lisowski and Barry Hawkins is scheduled for Sunday, March 1st, 2026, at 13:00 GMT. Snooker fans worldwide will be eagerly anticipating this exciting clash, as both players vie for the prestigious Ray Reardon Trophy and the coveted title of Welsh Open champion. The event promises a thrilling conclusion to a tournament filled with drama, skill, and memorable moments.
The next update will be the result of the final match on Sunday. We will provide full coverage and analysis of the outcome, along with reactions from both players. Share your predictions for the final in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow snooker enthusiasts!