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KYREN WILSON dismissed the memory of one of his most significant snooker defeats, stating: "I’d prefer to be completely dominated than lose on the final black in a deciding frame."
He did not pot a single ball during his match in Western China.
Kyren Wilson struggled as he aims to recover from his Xi’an Grand Prix defeatCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The Magician, 43, scored 533 consecutive points and was close to breaking the world record of 556 unanswered points set by Ronnie O’Sullivan against Ricky Walden at the 2014 Masters.
It was a lopsided destruction that sent shockwaves through the sport, but Wilson, 33, had some justification as he had been...
Speaking about that loss for the first time, the world No. 2 remarked: “I shook Shaun’s hand at the end of the match and said, ‘Mate, that’s the best anyone’s ever played against me.’
“Sometimes you just have to step back, acknowledge it, and admit the better player won that day.
“I’d much rather lose like that and not sit in awe, as I think that’s a dangerous mindset.
“It’s better to have a bit of respect for how well your opponent played rather than waste numerous chances and lose 6-5 on the black, thinking I could have won that easily.
“Sometimes, in this game – and that’s why I believe it’s the toughest sport in the world – you can’t react. You just have to sit there and accept it.”
Wilson is the reigning Northern Ireland Open champion.
However, his last encounter with Lines, 30, was an uncomfortable one that left him embarrassed.
The Kettering player – who is dealing with a cold from his trip to Xi’an – stated: “I must admit I felt really bad because we were on the same flight back from China.
“When we were at the baggage claim, I asked him: ‘What’s next for you then?’
“He replied: ‘Oh, Belfast.’ I said: ‘Oh, who do you play?’ He answered: ‘YOU.’
“I said: ‘Oh, I didn’t even know. I’m so sorry.’ I felt like I came off as really rude.
“But with so many tournaments nowadays, I can’t keep track of who I’m playing and when.
“Honestly, I don’t pay much attention to it. But I know he’s had a strong start to the season.
“I remember him winning in Saudi Arabia, which is quite an accomplishment. So, yeah, I’m sure he’s full of confidence and will be a tough first-round opponent.
“It could have been a lot easier.”
This assessment proved accurate as Lines fought hard until the very end of their match, but Wilson ultimately prevailed, adding insult to his unintentional slight.
He progressed in the round of 32 on Wednesday as he continues his quest to defend his title.
Wilson added: “You want to retain your silverware. You want to maintain the title of being the champion.
“It’s an incredible feeling returning to the tournament as the defending champion. If I can hold onto that for another year, it would be fantastic.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Kyren Wilson say about his recent defeat?
Kyren Wilson stated that he would rather be completely dominated than lose on the last black in a deciding frame, acknowledging the skill of his opponent.
How does Wilson feel about his upcoming matches?
Wilson expressed that he wants to retain his title and feels a great sense of pride in being the defending champion. He acknowledges that his next opponent will be challenging.
