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MARK SELBY demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship with a selfless choice during his UK Championship final clash with Judd Trump on Sunday.
He secured the £250,000 prize at the event.
Mark Selby showcased his class when he declined a free ball from the refereeCredit: PA
However, it was not just his remarkable performance that captivated fans.
Selby was also praised for a gesture of sportsmanship that put him at a disadvantage during their intense match.
Born in Leicester, Selby was ahead of his opponent seven to three as the contest progressed into its 11th frame.
Trump had established a lead of 19 points when he inadvertently committed a foul by hitting the blue ball.
The cue ball then rolled into a position where its path to the red seemed to be slightly blocked by the yellow ball.
Referee Olivier Marteel assessed the table and decided to offer Selby a free ball.
A visibly frustrated Trump began to scrutinize the table, while the referee used balls from the pocket to illustrate why he believed there was no clear line to the red.
However, the Juddernaut challenged the decision, stating regarding the red: “I think you can see it easily.”
Selby celebrated his victory with his familyCredit: PA
Marteel maintained: “For me, you are hitting the finest edge of the yellow first.”
But then Selby approached the table and examined the shot himself, before making an unexpected announcement to the referee.
He informed the referee that he believed he could hit the red and therefore should not receive a free ball.
Marteel politely responded: “You agree with Judd? Okay, I stand corrected.”
The crowd appreciated the display of sportsmanship and erupted into applause.
They were equally impressed when Trump executed his next shot off three cushions, maneuvering from one end of the table to the other and back again, eventually skillfully potting the red into the corner pocket.
Trump went on to win that frame and the following one, narrowing the gap to 7-5, a two-frame margin that ultimately led to Selby’s 10-8 victory.
This win marked the Jester from Leicester’s 10th title at a triple crown event.
However, not everyone was enamored with his performance.
After the match, Selby shared a humorous moment to put him in his place before the final.
He said: “She’s seen me play in a lot of tournaments.
“She mentioned the other day, ‘Do you actually enjoy watching Daddy play because it takes so long? It’s so boring’?”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significant moment in the UK Championship final?
Mark Selby displayed remarkable sportsmanship by declining a free ball offered by the referee, believing he could hit the red ball despite being at a disadvantage.
How did Judd Trump respond to the referee's decision?
Judd Trump expressed his frustration and questioned the referee's decision, stating that he believed the red ball was easily visible.
What was the outcome of the match?
Mark Selby won the match with a score of 10-8, securing his 10th title at a triple crown event.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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