Wu Yize beat Shaun Murphy 18-17 in the most remarkable World Snooker Championship final to become just the second Chinese world champion in history and the second-youngest winner at the Crucible.
A back-and-forth final swung both ways but, in the end, Wu held his nerve in a first deciding frame in a world final since 2002 as Murphy agonisingly lost for the fourth time in the Crucible showpiece since his own title win in 2005.
The 22-year-old phenom Wu had led 10-7 overnight before losing the first five frames on Monday as 43-year-old Murphy roared back into contention. However, the Chinese star gathered himself and built a 13-12 lead heading into the evening session.
There was little to choose between them from there, with no more than a frame separating them from 14-14 as both men made remarkable frame-winning breaks under the most intense pressure. However, Wu’s 85 in the deciding frame was the most important of all and 12 months of from Zhao Xintong becoming the first Chinese world champion, he has matched the feat.
Follow all the action from the World Championship final at the Crucible below.
Shaun Murphy v Wu Yize - live updates
- Wu Yize beats Shaun Murphy 18-17 in a thrilling World Snooker Championship final
- 22-year-old wonderkid Wu becomes the second-youngest world champion in history
- This was the first deciding frame in a world snooker final since 2002
- Murphy loses a fourth straight world final since his lone Crucible success in 2005
- Wu Yize: How the boy with bad technique became a world champion and snooker star
Wonderkid Wu Yize makes snooker history in style in one of the greatest Crucible finals
23:57 , Luke BakerFor the first time in 24 years, and just the fourth time in Crucible history, the World Snooker Championship final went to a deciding frame. It was a fitting climax to the 50th final at this iconic Sheffield theatre and after Wu Yize and Shaun Murphy had delivered a showpiece just as, if not more, compelling than any of the previous 49, it could hardly end any other way.
The decider itself may not have had the drama of the legendary black-ball finish of 1985 but as Wu held his nerve to complete an 85 break and become the second-youngest snooker world champion in history, the ‘Wuuuu’ chants that rang round this storied venue confirmed that the sport has a new star in the boy from Lanzhou.
At just 22 years and 202 days, Wu is a mere cub in sporting terms but he roared like a lion throughout a ding-dong battle with the 43-year-old Murphy, where the winner remained unclear until the very final moments.
Read Luke Baker’s full report from the Crucible:
Wonderkid Wu Yize makes snooker history in one of the greatest Crucible finals
Wu Yize pays tribute to his parents
23:15 , Luke BakerSpeaking on the BBC via an interpreter after his win, Wu Yize paid tribute to his parents.
“My parents are the true champions,” said Wu. “Since I made the decision to drop out of school, my dad has been by my side.
“My mum has also been going through a lot over the years, they are the source of my strength, I love them so much.
On how he won: “I think it was the belief. I have been trying to go for this for ages. For the past few months, I have been living the same life. I am so happy that I could play well today.
On his fans and the 'Wuuuu' chant: “At the beginning I had a misunderstanding, I thought they were booing me. But then the staff told me they were cheering me on so I can’t thank you enough. Thank you for all your support, I think the love for snooker is mutual."
Shaun Murphy predicted Wu Yize's win
23:03 , Luke BakerThe always gracious Shaun Murphy spoke to the BBC after his defeat and spoke very warmly of Wu Yize, saying he predicted he’d be world champion.
“I'd like to be the first to congratulate Wu Yize and his family, and everyone around him for being a wonderful world champion,” said Murphy.
“I hate being right, I said sometime earlier in the season, we had a great game out in China somewhere, and I managed to win that one.
"I came out afterwards and said that he would be world champion one day, it’s just a real shame that it was today, but I couldn't have given it anymore, I couldn't have tried harder. I played the best shots I could have played and I didn't get my chance. I couldn't do any more than that.”
Wu Yize: How the boy with bad technique became a world champion and snooker star
22:52 , Luke BakerWu Yize hails from Lanzhou in the northwest of China, a city famous for its beef noodles. The dish is a clear beef broth with radish slices, chilli oil and herbs, and aside from his family, it is the thing he misses most: there are plenty of Chinese restaurants in Sheffield, but they don’t hit like home.
It is one small cost of being one of the best young snooker players in the world. Wu moved his life to Yorkshire three years ago to be part of the growing stable of Chinese players in the city, and he could be the next superstar from the group.
The 22-year-old reached finals at the English Open and Scottish Open last season, and now the 10th seed has made history by winning the World Snooker Championship for the first time. He showed incredible heart to down Shaun Murphy 18-17 in a first final-frame decider in the Crucible showpiece for 24 years.
Wu Yize: How the boy with bad technique became China’s next great snooker star
Wu Yize becomes world champion
22:46 , Luke BakerWhat a remarkable victory for Wu Yize. Incredible scenes
Shaun Murphy 17-18 Wu Yize
22:33 , Luke BakerWOW, WOW, WOW. What a final, what a match. Shaun Murphy with a warm handshake for Wu Yize.
A horrible way to lose but what a world champion. Wu is. Just 22 years old, the second youngest world champion in history.
And a second Chinese world champion
Shaun Murphy 17-18 Wu Yize - WU YIZE IS WORLD CHAMPION
22:31 , Luke BakerHE’S DONE IT! What a performance in this final frame, what a performance in this championship.
Wu Yize is a star. A break of 85 and he’s the 2026 World Snooker Championship winner.
Frame score: Murphy 8-85 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:30 , Luke BakerShaun Murphy needs snookers! Wu Yize is going to win the World Championship!
Another brilliant thin cut to the right corner. A fist pump - he knows! “Wuuuuu” chants from the crowd
Frame score: Murphy 8-69 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:28 , Luke BakerAfter that bit of drama, Wu will hope it’s simpler from here. The pink goes down to the black spot, which makes things easier.
A few more pots and Wu is beyond 50 points. It’s hard to see where he goes wrong from here. Is Shaun Murphy resigned to his fate?
Frame score: Murphy 8-55 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:27 , Luke BakerHe can’t get through to the red so has to take a much trickier, thinner cut to the same pocket. MAKES IT! WOW! Pure bottle at this stage. Unreal pot. World Championship winning?
Frame score: Murphy 8-40 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:26 , Luke BakerHas to play in and out of baulk from the blue but there’s plenty of space to do so. Finishes nicely on a red.
The balls are all there for Wu. It’s all about nerve and technique now.
Ooooh, that’s a mistake! Tries to play on a red to right corner but he’s left himself slightly snookered by the pink! Oh my word. I don’t think he can get through to the potting angle.
Frame score: Murphy 8-33 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:24 , Luke BakerNo issues on the first few pots of this break for Wu. Cue ball under control, picks off a couple of reds and pinks. The black is tied up so it’s pink and blue for the Chinese star.
He reaches 20, plenty of work left
Frame score: Murphy 8-21 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:22 , Luke BakerMurphy left with hampered cueing, over green and yellow as he tries to play safe. The reds are becoming more spread at the business end of the table. Only a matter of time until a pot is left on.
Murphy takes more than 90 seconds as he weighs up his options. Eventually opts for a dump shot, leaving the cue ball on the bottom cushion.
But Wu has a pot to left middle... From the cushion, it’s not easy, and Wu looks concerned. But takes it on. GREAT POT! Finds the heart of the pocket and cannons the blue with the white to finish nicely on it. Class.
Frame score: Murphy 8-1 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:18 , Luke BakerBoth men taking much more time over their safety shots and who can blame them.
That’s some safety shot from Wu! Gets the cue ball in behind green and yellow. The chants of “Wuuuuu” follow from the crowd. A tap of the table in appreciation from Murphy.
Good response from the Englishman, off the side of the pack, back to baulk. Neither player renowned for the safety but they’ve both played belters!
Frame score: Murphy 8-0 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:16 , Luke BakerThe red does go to right middle! And Murphy is on the blue. Shaun Murphy, here’s your chance.
He’ll need to go into the pack at some point but he can build a lead for now. Or can he?
Pots the red but the cannon goes wrong and knocks the black towards the bottom cushion. Surely he has to play safe? Yep. Discretion the better part of valour and he sticks the cue ball up on the baulk cushion,
Frame score: Murphy 8-0 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:14 , Luke BakerWu Yize doesn’t often take long to decide on his shot choice but understandably taking his time over this one. Stuck behind the green, he needs to find a way to hit the pack of reds and not leave a pot on.
He’s coming off the top cushion first and four cushions in total. Good effort! Hits a red and I think there might be no pot for Murphy? Possible a tough red to right middle?
Frame score: Murphy 1-0 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:12 , Luke BakerWu breaks off and Murphy gets a look at a long pot to left corner. CRUNCHED IN! Roars follow from the crowd. What a pot.
No colour but a good snooker in behind the green.
Frame score: Murphy 1-0 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - deciding frame
22:11 , Luke BakerHere come the players. Roars from the Crucible crowd. What drama. A World Championship final deciding frame for the first time since 2002.
Man oh man. Sport eh! We love it.
Murphy 0-0 Wu
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize
22:08 , Luke BakerA deciding frame at the Crucible! Incredible scenes.
Shaun Murphy 17-17 Wu Yize - MURPHY WINS FRAME 34 TO FORCE A DECIDER
22:07 , Luke BakerJust pure guts from Shaun Murphy. An unbelievable clearance under pressure to force a deciding frame.
Shaun Murphy makes a break of 82 to win frame 34 AND FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2002, THE WORLD SNOOKER CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL IS HEADED TO A DECIDER
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize
22:06 , Luke BakerAggressive from Murphy! Powers in the penultimate red and tries to move the red on the left cushion. Rolls out enough and that’s in a better position now!
Pots the following black and now that red to left middle. Dropped in nicely! Surely we’re headed for a decider
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize
22:04 , Luke BakerNot what Murphy needed. Cannon the two central reds but left only with a thin snick to the right corner. MAKES IT! Class pot and the blue puts him ahead at 44-43.
It’s going to come down to the red on the left cushion.
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize
22:04 , Luke BakerMurphy the epitome of focus. Steely determination as he strolls round the table. Picking off reds and blacks, he moves the break to 30.
This isn’t an easy red along the bottom cushion... Stroked in nicely. Black to follow and his deficit is only 43-38.
There’s one tough red near the left cushion remaining.
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize
22:02 , Luke BakerMurphy can have a go at this plant now... Yep! It’s there, the reds split as well. He’s the wrong side of the blue though, will have to come in and out of baulk.
Does so and nicely on a red at the business end. Murphy can counter-attack here. Can he force a decider?
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize
22:00 , Luke BakerWu on 42 when he just takes a pause, checks the angles and then rolls in the red to right corner.
Will he go into the pack of reds off the black here? Looks like he might be lining up a plant instead.
BUT HE MISSES THE BLACK OFF THE SPOT! Break of 43 and Shaun Murphy comes back to the table.
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize
21:59 , Luke BakerCan Wu Yize hold his nerve in the biggest moment of his life? He rolls along as the break passes 20 and then 30. So far, so good. Cue ball under good control
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize
21:57 , Luke BakerMurphy breaks off in frame 34. Leaves Wu a long red. CRUNCHED IN! Boy oh boy can he pot.
He’s on the blue and this is a chance to win frame and match...
Shaun Murphy 16-17 Wu Yize - WU WINS FRAME 33
21:53 , Luke BakerIncredible holding of his nerve from Wu Yize! That yellow was different gravy.
He clears the table for a break of 91 and Wu Yize wins frame 33. HE’S ONE FRAME AWAY FROM THE WORLD TITLE AT 17-16
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize
21:52 , Luke BakerMurphy’s lead disappears and Wu moves ahead of him as he rolls in a blue to left middle. Two reds left but the final yellow, tight to the top cushion is the main obstacle remaining.
Wu leaves himself a good angle on the blue to try and get on the yellow. That’s not perfect... This is a thin cut along the cush... Huge shot
GOT IT! UNBELIEVABLE POT! And he’s on the green. He’s going to win this frame. WOW!
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize
21:49 , Luke BakerRight, this is Wu’s chance. He’s punched in a red to right corner and come back up for the blue. Sublime!
The reds are there for him to eradicate Murphy’s advantage if he can hold his nerve. He moves his break beyond 30.
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize
21:45 , Luke BakerMurphy tries to rattle a long red in down the left rail, both jaws, across the bottom cushion and goes safe.
Murphy still leads 45-0 in this frame but there’s a lot of snooker left.
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize
21:43 , Luke BakerBUT NO! There’s the pressure! Stretching slightly for the red and Murphy wobbles it in the jaws! 45 and out!
Wu with a pot to right corner. ALSO NO! Both jaws and out. That was very pottable.
The tension here! Oh my word!
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize
21:40 , Luke BakerMurphy reaches 32 in the break with few problems, and a nice split on the pack, then takes his time over the next black. He’s straight on it so can’t do much with the cue ball.
That means he’ll have to take a red to right middle. Cuts it in! Pure class. And nudges the blue to stay on it.
Powers that in, sends the cue ball round the angles and he’s nicely on another red. 45 and counting with the break
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize
21:37 , Luke BakerMurphy in first in frame 33. Crunches a long red into the pocket and holds for the pink to middle. Guts from the Magician. Can he produce something special here?
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize
21:35 , Luke BakerOh my word. This is such drama. A best of three for the world title. Surely we’ll get a decider? Surely...
Shaun Murphy 16-16 Wu Yize - MURPHY WINS FRAME 32
21:32 , Luke BakerNo mistakes from Murphy and he fancies a century here. What a time to do it!
Pots the last red and then the following black take shim over 100! Class. He completes the clearance for good measure, finishing with a double on the black! Murphy peacocking all over the place here!
Shaun Murphy makes a clearance of 131 and wins frame 32 to level the match at 16-16.
The world final has become a best of three!
Shaun Murphy 15-16 Wu Yize
21:27 , Luke BakerThin cut on the red to the left middle, it hits the top jaw but juuuuust drops in. Ooohs from the crowd!
Somehow, someway Murphy makes it to 50 with the break and he’s still battling away. What an effort this is. Can he finish it off and seal the frame?
Shaun Murphy 15-16 Wu Yize
21:25 , Luke BakerMurphy goes into the pack of reds off the blue when he’s on 20 and manages to wiggle a couple free. He’ll need to go back into the cluster at some point but for now the break continues.
In fact, off the next black he goes back to the well, trying to knock a couple free but the white flicks off the side and only leaves him a long pot to the left corner. Nails it!
But now a thin cut on the black. Also potted nicely! Hard work but he’s still going on 36.
Shaun Murphy 15-16 Wu Yize
21:22 , Luke BakerThe cue ball stays in the jaws of the yellow pocket from a Murphy safety but that’s actually a decent response by Wu. There is a red to the right corner on for the Englishman though... CRUNCHED IN!
Screws across for the black as well, with a little flick of the red putting him in a good position. Murphy in again, looking to respond to Wu’s latest frame-winning break.
Shaun Murphy 15-16 Wu Yize
21:20 , Luke BakerFrame 32 underway. This feels like a big one. If Wu can win it, he’ll be right on the brink, just one frame from victory.
Luck like that will help! He tries to pot a long one to the left corner, cannons another red with the white and it flies int he right corner! Good time for a fluke.
No colour to follow though, so just one point
Shaun Murphy 15-16 Wu Yize - WU WINS FRAME 31
21:16 , Luke BakerNot for long though as Murphy leaves a red over the corner pocket and Wu strokes it in. That’s enough to win the frame and a few more pots seal the deal.
Wu Yize wins frame 31 and re-takes the lead at 16-15. Two frames needed for victory...
Shaun Murphy 15-15 Wu Yize
21:14 , Luke BakerMurphy and Wu both rattle attempted long reds. Wu knows that one more red will probably seal him the frame. Murphy would need a counter-clearance to rival the one in the last frame.
Murphy thinks he’s left it safe but Wu squeezes the cue ball through a gap and clips the red into the right corner. No colour to follow, so Murphy still technically alive in this frame.
Shaun Murphy 15-15 Wu Yize
21:11 , Luke BakerNot the tightest cue ball control from Wu but he keeps potting his way out of trouble. He leaves himself a tricky cut to the right corner with the rest and uses every inch of the pocket as it wriggles in! 56 and counting for the Chinese star.
But finally his luck runs out as he doesn’t land nicely on a red. He leads by 57 points, with 67 still remaining as Murphy returns to the table.
Shaun Murphy 15-15 Wu Yize
21:07 , Luke BakerWu maneuvers the cue ball around the reds, picking off the ones he wants and adding the colours. He doesn’t have the white on a string in quite the way Murphy does but no big mistakes yet as he moves to 40 points.
Shaun Murphy 15-15 Wu Yize
21:04 , Luke BakerThose cuts to the left corner are Wu Yize specials and he delivers another here. He can’t hold for the black though so has to play safe off the brown.
A few shots later, there’s an aggressive shot by Wu! He picks out a pot to the corner that also splits the reds everywhere! Had to make it and does!
The reds are so invitingly spread now and he can make a huge score here.
Shaun Murphy 15-15 Wu Yize
20:58 , Luke BakerThat was pure guts from Shaun Murphy. What a clearance to pinch the frame and he strolls back to his seat with a steely look on his face.
The 2026 World Snooker Championship final has come down to a best of 5! Drama. Drama. Drama.
Shaun Murphy 15-15 Wu Yize - MURPHY WINS FRAME 30
20:57 , Luke BakerNice cannon on the blue to hold for the final red for Murphy. The next key shot will be from yellow to the green, lurking on the left of the table.
He plays to get in behind it and pot to right middle. Played perfectly! There shouldn’t be any issues from here...
WHAT A DISH BY SHAUN MURPHY. He clears up with a break of 65 to pinch the frame 73-70, win frame 30 and level the match at 15-15
Shaun Murphy 14-15 Wu Yize
20:53 , Luke BakerWu slashes at a long red, misses and the balls fly round the table. Murphy left with a simple pot to right middle to get going - this frame is still winnable but it will take an impressive counter-clearance.
Potting the pink with the rest at least gives him a chance. Can he hold his nerve with all the remaining reds available?
Shaun Murphy 14-15 Wu Yize
20:52 , Luke BakerThat’s some pot by Murphy! An aggressive shot, taking on the long red to right corner but what’s he got to lose, down by 70. Stuns it in and holds for the black. WOW!
He’s a bit unlucky with his next shot, trying to separate the cluster of reds but the white sticks among them. He’s forced to fetch the spider from under the table, bridging over reds to try and cut one into the right corner. Very tough shot and it misses but he played it with an element of safety. He trails 70-8
Shaun Murphy 14-15 Wu Yize
20:49 , Luke BakerWu comes off the right-hand cushion after potting the black to try and dislodge a few reds from the pack. Good cue power and leaves himself a cut to the right middle. Not easy but that’s a lovely pot! Right in the heart.
The next black takes him to 62 points and there’s a couple of reds that should be easy enough to add to his haul. He reaches 70 and only has a thin cut to the right corner, into a blind pocket, available.
It misses but he played the cue ball up to the baulk end. A 70-0 lead with 75 points remaining for Wu. He’s in control of this frame
Shaun Murphy 14-15 Wu Yize
20:45 , Luke BakerThere’s a couple of reds around the black spot but Wu clears them to make his life easier. Then goes up for the blue off the fourth red.
The main pack will need splitting open at some point but for now, Wu picks off the loose cherries and the break moves up towards 40
Shaun Murphy 14-15 Wu Yize
20:43 , Luke BakerBack underway at the Crucible and there will be no more breaks before we crown the 2026 world champion.
What a start to this session by Wu Yize! Lines up a red down the right cushion and absolutely drills it into the heart of the pocket, screws back and is perfect on the black. AMAZING! The things this boy does on a snooker table... Wow.
WATCH: Wu lights up the Crucible
20:32 , Luke BakerThere’s been some cracking shots from Wu Yize so far in this session. Here was one of them
What a shot from Wu Yize 🩷
— WST (@WeAreWST) May 4, 2026
(Even if he did miss the next red 🙃) #WorldChampionship | pic.twitter.com/ONY7b863da
MID-SESSION INTERVAL: Shaun Murphy 14-15 Wu Yize
20:23 , Luke BakerHow big will that frame be? What a steal from Wu Yize. He leads as the players head to the dressing room for 15 minutes or so.
He’s now three frames away from a first world title but Shaun Murphy only needs four. This could be brilliant drama.
Shaun Murphy 14-15 Wu Yize - WU WINS FRAME 29
20:21 , Luke BakerWhat a chance for Wu. He pots the long red to the yellow pocket and that sets him up for a counter-clearance to steal this frame.
The colours all on their spots and Wu makes no mistake! A break of 41 and he nicks the frame by four points.
Absolutely huge for Wu Yize as he pinches frame 29 and leads 15-14 at the mid-session interval. What a match!
Shaun Murphy 14-14 Wu Yize
20:18 , Luke BakerBut there’s a mistake from Murphy. He pots a black to move his frame score to 56 but he’s too straight and can’t get on a red.
Frustration for Murphy as he’s in control at 56-19 ahead but has to play safe.
A couple of shots of safety and Murphy then goes for a long red to the green pocket, it rattles both jaws and rolls across the top cushion.
Shaun Murphy 14-14 Wu Yize
20:14 , Luke BakerWu straight back in as he crunches in a long pot to the left corner, then pots a good green and is back down the business end of the table.
All the reds are clustered in the middle of the table bar one towards the left side. BUT WAIT! A simple pot to the right corner and he plays it too thick! What a miss. Didn’t see that coming. Murphy leads 34-19 and there’s a chance to wrap the frame up here now.
Shaun Murphy 14-14 Wu Yize
20:10 , Luke BakerNot a great split of the reds from Wu and the break comes to an end after just eight points, Let-off for Murphy
Shaun Murphy 14-14 Wu Yize
20:08 , Luke BakerMurphy manages to get the black back on its spot early in this break and he’s going along nicely until...
Bridging over the reds to try and poke the pink into the left middle but it hits the top jaw. 34 points but Wu now back at the table straight in among the balls.
Shaun Murphy 14-14 Wu Yize
20:05 , Luke BakerMurphy plays a safety off the side of the pack and flukes a red to the left corner. Raises a hand of apology but he’ll take it! Then rolls up behind the green.
A few shots later, Wu’s attempted safety bumps off the knuckle of the middle pocket and Murphy can cut a red into the right corner. Not an easy-looking table but he can make a few here at least.
Shaun Murphy 14-14 Wu Yize - MURPHY WINS FRAME 28
19:58 , Luke BakerMurphy takes three reds with blacks to move 41 points ahead with 43 still remaining. Now for frame-ball, down the right cushion. Rolled in nicely! Applause from the audience.
Black added and then Murphy tries to doubel the final red. Rattles out but he’s 49 ahead with 35 left on and Wu doesn’t bother coming back to the table.
Shaun Murphy wins frame 28 to level at 14-14 and strides out of the arena for a quick break with a look of steely determination on his face.
Shaun Murphy 13-14 Wu Yize
19:55 , Luke BakerWu tries to float a long red into the left corner but it stays out. Murphy vindicated for playing safe as another chance now presents itself. This is a frame-winning opportunity although a couple of the reds are in tricky positions.
Shaun Murphy 13-14 Wu Yize
19:53 , Luke BakerLittle nudges and cannons from Murphy to keep the cue ball in the centre of the table and picking off reds. He quickly goes past Wu’s score of 26.
There are a couple of reds on cushions that will need dealing with but there’s plenty of points to be hoovered up first.
But he runs out of position when on 43 and is forced to play safe. This frame is right in the balance with 67 points still available and Muprhy leading 43-26.
Shaun Murphy 13-14 Wu Yize
19:50 , Luke BakerWu will need to go into the pack at some point but OH NO! Before that, he misses a red to left corner. Didn’t see that coming! The red was close to the pink and Wu didn’t quite get the right connection, so it hits the near jaw. Leaves the tabel after making 26.
An opportunity Murphy probably didn’t expect. He stuns into the pack of his first black and it’s ok. Good cut on a red to left corner and back in perfect position!
Shaun Murphy 13-14 Wu Yize
19:48 , Luke BakerWu Yize has absolutely zero interest in safety battles. He’s going for his pots and making his fair share. Nice long red to the left corner is followed by an even better blue into the yellow pocket. He’s box-office.
Quickly races to 20 and the reds are well-positioned with all three high-value colours available. Great break-building chance.
Shaun Murphy 13-14 Wu Yize - MURPHY WINS FRAME 27
19:42 , Luke BakerGutsy break from Shaun Murphy, pots a pink to left middle despite some tricky cueing. The break gets beyond 60 points and then he’s over the line in the frame, leaving Wu needing snookers.
But he’ll want to clear the table and really make a statement. As I say that he misses a red with the rest. But no matter.
Shaun Murphy makes a break of 82 and wins frame 27 to narrow the gap to 14-13
Shaun Murphy 12-14 Wu Yize
19:37 , Luke BakerFour reds and four blacks for Shaun Murphy before he’s forced to go up for a baulk colour. He’s taking his time with this break and has had to pull out a couple of decent pots.
He gets towards 40 points and he’ll be thinking about winning this frame in one visit.
Shaun Murphy 12-14 Wu Yize
19:33 , Luke BakerThere haven’t been too many lengthy safety battles in this match. We’ve got a bit of one here although Wu goes for a couple of outlandish pots and gets lucky not to leave Murphy with anything to go at.
Murphy is superior when it comes to the tactical play (although it’s hardly the strongest part of his game) and Wu’s luck eventually runs out, leaving his opponent a red to left corner to get him going.
Shaun Murphy 12-14 Wu Yize
19:27 , Luke BakerHmmm. That’s a concern for Shaun Murphy. Misses a long, straight pot to the left corner by a long way. Not even close, really...
Wu left with a really tricky thin cut to right middle and it hits the top jaw.
Shaun Murphy 12-14 Wu Yize - WU WINS FRAME 26
19:23 , Luke BakerThe only question left in this frame is whether Wu Yize can make a century. Two reds on cushions will make it tough.
HE reaches 81 and leaves himself a double to right middle. MAKES IT! Class. Tricky pink to follow... Slams it into right middle and comes all the way around the angles to give him a chance at the final red. But it’s too close to the cushion and he misses. Ah, a shame. A scintillating break though.
But a break of 88 and Wu Yize wins frame 26 to lead by two at 14-12
Shaun Murphy 12-13 Wu Yize
19:20 , Luke BakerThis is a really good start by Wu, he’s striking the cue ball with authority and the break passes the 40-point mark with minimal issue.
He’s taking his time over a couple of shots, just making sure he’s completely happy with what he’s playing. That precision is serving him well and he’s moving closer to the finish line in the frame. All of this without the black being available.
A check of the scoreboard, this pink would put him 68 points ahead with only 59 left. It’s there. What a start to the session for Wu.
Shaun Murphy 12-13 Wu Yize
19:16 , Luke BakerShaun Murphy was much more relaxed during his walkout, happily saluting the crowd.
But on the table, Wu gets the next opportunity when a Murphy safety hits the bump of the middle pocket. Leaves him a comfortable red to get going and the break quickly moves to 20 points, even with the black out of commission. A good chance to build a lead.
Shaun Murphy 12-13 Wu Yize
19:11 , Luke BakerWu Yize lost the first five frames of the afternoon session. Can he settle more quickly this evening? Gets a look at a pot straight off the Murphy break.
But misses! Plays it too thick and it rattles out. Murphy does pick out a red, cutting it into the right corner, before rolling up behind the green to put pressure on Wu.
Shaun Murphy 12-13 Wu Yize
19:10 , Luke BakerWu Yize walks out first. Good reaction from the crowd with a few of the patented “Wuuuuuuuuu” chants. He looks focused, and determined but barely looks up as he walks to the arena floor with purpose.
Shaun Murphy gets a bigger reception and acknowledges the crowd, stopping at the top of the final few steps to raise his hand to the spectators.
FINAL SESSION: Shaun Murphy 12-13 Wu Yize
19:07 , Luke BakerWe’ll be getting back underway shortly. What a night of action we could be in for.
Remember, 18 frames is the target for victory. Wu Yize needs five, Shaun Murphy six. We could have as many as 10 frames.
This is going to be epic.
The closest final since 2014
18:52 , Luke BakerIt’s about 10 minutes until we get underway again here at the Crucible. And what an evening of action we’re in for.
Ronnie O’Sullivan v Mark Selby in 2014 was the last time a world final was separated by just one frame going into the final session.
Selby went on to win that 18-14. Will one of these men pull away in the same manner or will we go all the way? We haven’t had a deciding frame in a world final since Stephen Hendry vs Peter Ebdon in 2002. We’re due, aren’t we...?
World Snooker Championship final interrupted by protester as referee intervenes
18:31 , Luke BakerThe final of the World Snooker Championship was interrupted by a protester with referee Rob Spencer forced to intervene.
With Wu Yize and Shaun Murphy locked in a protracted safety battle in the third frame, a woman vaulted into the playing area close to the table and appeared to shout something. It was not immediately clear what her intentions were, though it appeared her comment was directed at the BBC.
Spencer ensured the disturbance was short as he rushed quickly to the individual, before she was removed from the Crucible Theatre by security.
Wu Yize: How the boy with bad technique became a star destined to win the World Snooker Championship
18:01 , Luke BakerWant to know a little bit more about Wu Yize - the wonderkid who may be on the brink of his first world title?
Read Lawrence Ostlere’s profile of a man who may well fulfil what seems his destiny as a world champion.
Wu Yize: How the boy with bad technique became China’s next great snooker star
What is the World Snooker Championship prize money?
17:36 , Luke BakerThe trophy and the honour of becoming world snooker champion is obviously the main prize here at the Crucible but there’s also a fair amount of money on the line for the players.
Here’s the prize pot for the tournament.
- Winner: £500,000
- Runner-up: £200,000
- Semi-finals: £100,000
- Quarter-finals: £50,000
- Last 16: £30,000
- Last 32: £20,000
- Last 48: £15,000
- Last 80: £10,000
- Last 112: £5,000
- Highest break: £15,000
- Maximum break: £40,000, paid out in addition to the highest break prize. The break bonuses are shared if two players hit the same total.
WATCH Wu Yize snatches final frame of the session
17:04 , Luke BakerWu Yize held his nerve and pinched a crucial final frame of the afternoon session
A huge end to the penultimate session! 🤝
— WST (@WeAreWST) May 4, 2026
What a final evening we have upon us in Sheffield...#WorldChampionship pic.twitter.com/IjZEaxGXN9
END OF SESSION: Shaun Murphy 12-13 Wu Yize
16:40 , Luke BakerA fascinating session of snooker. Wu Yize looked in all sorts of trouble as Shaun Murphy rattled off the first five frames, with the Chinese star looking completely lost.
But he responded well, digging deep and winning each of the final three frames to snatch back the lead at 13-12.
What an evening of snooker we’re in for. It all restarts at 7pm BST remember
Shaun Murphy 12-13 Wu Yize - WU WINS FRAME 25
16:20 , Luke BakerWu does what’s required to get over the line and spectacularly clears the table for a break of 60. Top stuff.
Wu Yize wins frame 25 to lead 13-12 and he’ll have a one-frame advantage heading into this evening’s session.
That’s a great recovery by Wu after losing the first five frames of the session. He wins the final three to snatch back the lead
Shaun Murphy 12-12 Wu Yize
16:16 , Luke BakerA nice split of the reds by Wu and this has been a classy break from the Chinese star. He gets to 61 but then lets the cue ball get away from him slightly.
There’s no pot on a red, so he’s forced to play safe. He leads 61-5 with 67 still on but Murphy has a slash at a long pot, misses and Wu is straight back in. Now he’s over the line and he’s going to lead heading into tonight
Shaun Murphy 12-12 Wu Yize
16:11 , Luke BakerMurphy pots an early red but no colour to follow and Wu then gets a chance with a nice pot of his own to start.
Great shot! On 8, Wu cuts a pink into the bottom corner pocket and sends the white screaming around the table, in and out of baulk, landing perfectly on another red. Pure class and a sign he’s feeling it again!
The break moves beyond 20 and then 30.
Shaun Murphy 12-12 Wu Yize
16:03 , Luke BakerOne frame left in this afternoon session. The players are going to head into this evening as close as they can be but there’ll be a slight psychological edge for whoever is a frame ahead, so the next 15 minutes or so will be important.
Who can get their nose in front?
Shaun Murphy 12-12 Wu Yize - WU WINS FRAME 24
16:00 , Luke BakerWu misses a pot when the break is on 46 but he’d already scored more than enough.
Wu Yize wins frame 24 and levels the match at 12-12.
Shaun Murphy 12-11 Wu Yize
15:59 , Luke BakerWu has really steadied the ship now. Get back in and looks like he’ll get over the line in this frame to level the match once more.
He’s finding the heart of the pocket with his pots once more and there’s a good tempo to his play.
Shaun Murphy 12-11 Wu Yize
15:50 , Luke BakerAnother good long pot from Wu. Hampered cueing but cuts the red into the heart of the left corner pocket. But the cue ball doesn’t run quite far enough, snookering him on his intended red so he can only add 11 to his score.
Wu is then close with a long red but it just stays out and hangs over the hole for Murphy to tap in. Both pink and black are tied up though, so all he’s left with is a safety off the baulk colours and just one point. Wu leads 27-1.
Shaun Murphy 12-11 Wu Yize
15:47 , Luke BakerAre Wu’s wobbles behind him now? Crunches in a couple of long pots early in frame 24 as he looks to continue the momentum of the previous frame.
Can’t get position on a colour soon after though, so departs the table having made just 12.
Shaun Murphy 12-11 Wu Yize - WU WINS FRAME 23
15:38 , Luke BakerThis is much better from Wu, he’s starting to get good action on the cue ball and picking off reds and pinks.
Leaves himself a tricky cut to the left corner for frame-ball red. Great pot! He’s over the line in this frame and finally wins his first of the afternoon. It all came from Murphy’s missed cut to the right corner.
There’s not enough on for Wu to make a century but it’s a break of 64 and Wu Yize wins frame 23 to claim his first of the day and narrow the deficit to 12-11.
Shaun Murphy 12-10 Wu Yize
15:33 , Luke BakerWu misses a long red to the right corner but Murphy can’t capitalise and Wu is back in with a simple starter red.
He needs to take advantage this time and try to kill this frame off.
Shaun Murphy 12-10 Wu Yize
15:30 , Luke BakerCan Wu Yize find a way to reset and stop the bleeding? He’s got another chance at the table here - he needs to lock in and make telling contribution.
He looks good to start this break and pots a nice red on the stretch on 26. He pots a yellow to follow but there’s no position on a red.
The break ends at 29 as he plays safe. Certainly not decisive.
Shaun Murphy 12-10 Wu Yize
15:24 , Luke BakerPlenty for Wu Yize to ponder. This session has been an absolute disaster for him.
He’ll be desperate for it to end but he needs to find a way to snatch a couple of frames
Shaun Murphy 12-10 Wu Yize - MURPHY WINS FRAME 22
15:21 , Luke BakerNo mistake from Murphy. Clears the table for a break of 67.
The frame was at Wu’s mercy but he missed a black off the spot. He’s really struggling here.
Shaun Murphy steals frame 22 and extends his lead to 12-10.
Shaun Murphy 11-10 Wu Yize
15:19 , Luke BakerThis would be a really damaging steal from Murphy if he pinches this frame. Good pot into the left corner to keep the break going on 26 and he lands nicely on the black.
Black wriggles in! The final red is on the right-hand side of the table, so a slight stretch for ‘the Magician’ , potting into t a blind pocket but it’s in the heart!
All the colours are more or less on their spots. This one is going to hurt Wu Yize...
Shaun Murphy 11-10 Wu Yize
15:16 , Luke BakerAggressive shot from Wu on 12 as he brings the black off the bottom cushion while potting a red. Plays it nicely - good shot.
He’s looking a bit more fluent now. The break moves beyond 30 points but NO! Takes a long time over a black off the spot when he’s on 37 and misses it! Rattles in both jaws and stays out. This is not good for Wu.
Murphy right back in.
Shaun Murphy 11-10 Wu Yize
15:11 , Luke BakerThat’s a poor safety from Wu, only succeeds in moving a red right over the corner pocket and Murphy duly takes advantage with a pot, although misses a tough blue to follow.
That leaves Wu right in among the balls. He desperately needs a sizeable break to settle his nerves.
By his third, he’s got a mid to long-range red but cuts it in nicely to big applause from the Crucible crowd. They’re willing the youngster on here.
Shaun Murphy 11-10 Wu Yize
15:06 , Luke BakerBack underway for four more frames this afternoon. Wu Yize needs to find a way to win at least two of them really.
His long-pot success for this session is at 31 per cent - very un-Wu. But it’s Murphy in first as he strokes in a red, followed by the blue.
However, despite the reds all being spread in the middle of the table, they’re blocking each other so he’s forced to play safe on just six.
WATCH: Wu Yize takes seven attempts to get out of a snooker
14:55 , Luke BakerThis might sum up Wu Yize’s afternoon so far. Shaun Murphy is not exactly renowned from his tactical safety play but snookered Wu behind the pink and it took the Chinese cueman seven attempts to escape.
It basically handed that frame to Murphy and Wu continued to struggle from there.
Super safe from Shaun Murphy! 🔐
— WST (@WeAreWST) May 4, 2026
It took Wu Yize SEVEN attempts to get out of this snooker.#WorldChampionship | @nordvpn pic.twitter.com/K6D1NJsNky
MID-SESSION INTERVAL: Shaun Murphy 11-10 Wu Yize
14:47 , Luke BakerWow. What a brilliant mini-session for Shaun Murphy, who takes all four frames with breaks of 76, 52, 59 and 55 to suddenly lead 11-10.
Wu Yize desperately needs the mid-session interval to try and stop the rot because this match could get away from him if he’s not careful.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
