Jack Lisowski won his first ever ranking title at the Northern Ireland Open, beating Judd Trump 9-8 in a thrilling final in Belfast – with tears flowing in the aftermath
Jack Lisowski was overcome with emotion as he clinched the Northern Ireland Open, before declaring Judd Trump “the closest thing I’m ever going to have to a brother.” It proved a nail-biting encounter at Waterfront Hall on Sunday evening, with Lisowski going head-to-head against the World No1 for his maiden ranking title.
The match went right to the death as the duo entered the 17th and deciding frame locked at 8-8, before Lisowski finally defeated his longtime friend and snooker adversary to claim the tournament. During the closing shots of the contest, Lisowski started dabbing away tears from his eyes, extending his advantage that bit more with each successful pot.
And once the match was settled, he instantly made his way over to Trump for a heartfelt hug, as the 36-year-old offered his congratulations on the well-deserved victory.
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Speaking following his triumph, Lisowski wasted no time in praising Trump for his conduct both during matches and away from the table, expressing gratitude for their close bond.
He said: “You’ve been a better friend than I could have ever asked for over the past eight months.
“He’s obviously one of the greatest snooker players of all time already, but he’s been the best friend I ever could have wished for. You’re the closest thing I’m ever going to have to a brother and I love you.”
Meanwhile, Trump also expressed his admiration for Lisowski, staying gracious despite losing to his dear friend.
He said: “Yeah, it was a good game. I think there was obviously a bit of tension. It was a different scenario than the rest of the finals we’ve played in – there was obviously a lot more on the line. But I’m so pleased for Jack.
“I’ll never take it for granted winning in the final, but I’m probably a lot happier than if I would have won, to be honest. I gave it my absolute all.
“It wasn’t to be. I missed a few shots, a few things here and there. Jack fully deserved the win and there’s no person happier for him than me.”
He added: “I said it to him, it’s so nice that he can just shut everyone up – because it annoys me. No-one can say that again. The first title is also special – what he’s been through his whole life really, not just this last eight months.
“He’s got an amazing family and friends around him, they’ve been so supportive. I’m glad to be a friend.”
Despite being a fan favourite on the World Snooker Tour for what feels like an eternity, the Northern Ireland Open comes as Lisowski’s first ranking title – having made seven finals in total over the course of his career.
Trump, meanwhile continues a lengthy wait for a title of his own, his last coming in December 2024.