UK Championship 2024: Trump Edges Higgins to Maintain Perfect Decider Record

World number one Judd Trump showcased his renowned composure under pressure, defeating legendary Scot John Higgins 6-5 in a dramatic final frame decider to book his place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 UK Championship.

Final Frame Dominance 

This marked Trump’s sixth last-frame decider victory of the season, maintaining an immaculate 100% record in such situations. 

The "Ace in the Pack" has now triumphed in deciders across multiple tournaments, including the Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters, the English Open in Brentwood, and the Wuhan Open.

Speaking to SportsBoom.com after his latest triumph, the 2011 UK Championship winner attributed his success to a simple but ruthless approach: not missing easy shots.

“I Just Don’t Miss Easy Balls” 

“I just don't miss easy balls. I think that's what you've got to try and do. Just that extra second of care,” Trump explained.

The 34-year-old admitted that high-pressure situations bring out the best in him, a trait that sets him apart from his competitors.

“It seems to me, when the pressure's on, my positional play actually gets quite good rather than loose throughout the whole of the match,” he said. 

“To be honest, where I was leaving the white after each shot, the balls are unmissable, I think, pretty much when the position is that good. So, it was nice to do it again.”

Saudi Inspired Win

Trump also reflected on his unforgettable victory in the 2024 Saudi Arabia Snooker Masters final, where he overcame Mark Williams in another nail-biting decider to claim the £500,000 prize. 

During his battle with Higgins, he drew strength from that iconic win.

“Obviously, I did it in Saudi Arabia when it was under some real pressure, and I mean there were times in that last frame where I thought back to Saudi and then how I did it there. I was able to come through again,” Trump shared.

Instilling Fear in Snooker’s Greats 

When asked if he believes he is the only player capable of instilling fear in snooker’s greatest names, Trump didn’t shy away from the suggestion.

“I’d like to think so,” he said confidently. 

“Recently I've managed to get over the line in a couple of real tight games against those players, the greats of the game.”

For Trump, the prospect of facing legends like Higgins is a challenge he relishes, particularly knowing that his reputation puts doubt in their minds.

“I can't imagine that they look forward too much to playing me, which is always a nice feeling. It just adds a little bit of doubt in their mind,” he added.

Higgins Lost at Sea

On the other side of the table, Higgins, a four-time world champion, admitted that Trump’s confidence was palpable throughout the match. 

Despite his vast experience, the Scot confessed to feeling the difference in mental edge between the two players.

“He probably feels that he's going to win and he's going to clear up if he's been in that many [final frame deciders],” Higgins said. 

“I didn't know how many he's been in, but he's obviously got utmost confidence in doing that.”

“Whereas the likes of myself in these big, big matches, you’re maybe a little bit at sea.”

Higgins’ respect for Trump’s ability was clear, but the result also highlighted a broader reality: Trump’s dominance in clutch moments continues to separate him from the pack. 

As he advances to the quarterfinals, his unshakeable belief and razor-sharp execution under pressure make him the man to beat in York.