Snooker sensation Judd Trump hopes to make a fast start when the season gets underway with the Roewe Shanghai Masters qualifiers at Pontin’s in Prestatyn next week.
The 19-year-old from Bristol made huge strides forward in his snooker career last season, jumping 11 places to 30th in the world rankings and recording wins over the likes of Mark Williams, Ken Doherty and Ronnie O’Sullivan.
He won 17 consecutive matches in qualifying events - a remarkable run given the standard of competition. Left-hander Trump, who has won over fans with his rapid and attacking style of play, is now deterrmined to kick on again in his career and break into the sport’s elite bracket.
“The challenge for me this season will be to get into the top 16,” said Trump, whose highlights last season were reaching the semi-finals of the Grand Prix and winning the Masters qualifying tournament. “I start 21st provisionally but I’m only about 200 points outside the top 16, so if I play well through the season I should get there.
“I feel very relaxed playing at Prestatyn and I won a Pro-Am tournament there last week, which was great preparation for the qualifiers. The tables have changed (to new official supplier Star tables) so it was good to get some practice on them.“
Many of snooker’s most famous names will be competing in next week’s qualifiers, which run from August 3 to 6. Former World Champions Steve Davis, Ken Doherty, John Parrott and Graeme Dott, as well as Whirlwind Jimmy White and rising star Jamie Cope will be among those aiming to secure a seat on the flight to Shanghai for the tournament proper, which runs from September 7 to 13.
“The matches are always tough because there are so many good players there,” added Trump, who plays his qualifying match on Thursday August 6 at 10am. “Even when you are playing those ranked at the bottom of the list, you have to take your chances.”
Tickets are available at the entrance to Pontin’s and cost just £5 for the day, so head to Prestatyn for the chance to see your heroes in action.
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