2024 World Snooker Championship: Happy in Defeat, Jak Jones Puts Criticism to Bed in World Title Final

Welsh qualifier Jak Jones captivated audiences and defied expectations at the 2024 World Snooker Championship, reaching the final and showcasing his talent on the grand stage of the Crucible Theatre. Despite falling short in the final against Kyren Wilson, Jones's journey was marked by resilience, excitement, and a spirited rebuttal to criticism.

Jones's ascent to the final was nothing short of remarkable. As a Welsh qualifier, he had never before reached a professional ranking final. However, his extraordinary run at the World Snooker Championship saw him defy the odds, captivating fans with his skill and determination.

Throughout his journey, Jones faced criticism from opponents such as Judd Trump and Stuart Bingham, who labelled his style of play as negative and slow. 

In the final against Kyren Wilson, Jones showcased his versatility and talent, dispelling misconceptions about his playing style. Despite trailing by seven frames at times, Jones played with flair and excitement, delighting the crowd with expansive snooker.

"No, not at all. I was just naturally quicker in that match," Jones explained when asked if he purposefully quickened his pace to send a message to his critics. "It kind of does prove that I’m not that slow,” he told SportsBoom.com. 

Jones's performance in the final was marked by a remarkable increase in pace, with his shot average time clocking in at under 24 seconds, compared to an average of 28 seconds for the rest of the tournament.

"Oh, that's flying even for me," Jones jokingly quipped upon learning his shot average time.

Despite the eventual defeat, the Welshmen remained true to his character, wearing a smile on his face despite the daunting challenge before him. His unwavering positivity was a testament to his joyful approach to the game, regardless of the outcome.

Reflecting on his demeanour during the final, Jones shared, “I think I'm quite a happy person in general. I know I go from moments where I don't look so happy, but playing out there it is amazing.”

“The players outside the 16 are playing in behind closed doors, qualifiers most of the time, no one watching. So, when you come somewhere here, it is just so exciting walking out there in front of the crowd, hearing them cheer you. It keeps you going. It just puts a smile on your face.”

Even when faced with the adversity of being seven frames behind at times, Jones refused to let negativity overshadow his experience. Instead, he drew inspiration from the electrifying atmosphere of the Crucible Theatre, allowing the cheers of the crowd to fuel his motivation.

For Jones, every moment on the Crucible stage was a cherished opportunity to showcase his talent and embrace the thrill of competition. Despite the pressure of the final match, his infectious smile served as a reminder of his love for the game and his gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the highest level.

Image credit: WST