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Barry Hawkins Triumphs at Welsh Open, Claims £100,000 Prize

3/2/2026

24 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Hawkins Triumphs Again

Barry Hawkins won the 2026 Welsh Open in Llandudno, defeating Jack Lisowski 9-5, and received the Ray Reardon Trophy and £100,000.
Hawkins contemplated withdrawal due to back issues but dominated early, leading 7-1 after the afternoon session.
Lisowski staged a comeback to 8-5, but Hawkins secured the win in the 14th frame.
Lisowski's performance improved his ranking and kept him in contention for the Tour Championship.

Summary

Higgins Advances Final

John Higgins reached the Welsh Open final after defeating Zhou Yuelong 5-0 in the quarter-finals, with breaks of 75 and 67.
Jack Lisowski defeated 2017 champion Stuart Bingham 5-2 and will face Higgins in the semi-final, after leading 4-0 and making breaks of 70 and 118.
This match sets the stage for a thrilling final in Llandudno.

History

Historical Context

The 1977 Welsh Open marked a turning point in snooker, establishing competitive tournaments under the newly formed World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association (WPBSA). This era saw increased prize funds and the introduction of significant events like the UK Championship, first held in 1977. The sport's evolution has since attracted a growing audience, culminating in Barry Hawkins winning £100,000 in 2026.

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Hawkins Triumphs Again

Barry Hawkins won the 2026 Welsh Open in Llandudno, defeating Jack Lisowski 9-5, and received the Ray Reardon Trophy and £100,000.
Hawkins contemplated withdrawal due to back issues but dominated early, leading 7-1 after the afternoon session.
Lisowski staged a comeback to 8-5, but Hawkins secured the win in the 14th frame.
Lisowski's performance improved his ranking and kept him in contention for the Tour Championship.

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