Judd Trump says he has “no excuses” left as he steps out in a quest to win a first Betfred snooker World Championship title.
The 26-year-old went close to winning the snooker world championship silverware five years ago, when as a qualifier he produced a stunning run that was only ended with defeat to John Higgins in a classic Crucible final.
Last year the swashbuckling Bristolian was beaten by eventual champion Stuart Bingham in the semi-finals, an upset that was followed by Trump’s conqueror carrying off the title.
“It’s the last thing I need to top off what I wanted to do when I was a kid. I feel I’ve achieved everything else”
Trump was told on Friday by Ronnie O’Sullivan that he needs to get a first snooker world championship title under his belt before turning 30, or the challenge will become far more difficult.
And Trump, as the tournament begins in Sheffield on Saturday, is certain he is playing well enough to achieve his life’s ambition over the next 17 days.
He said: “I’ve got enough experience now.
“There’s no reason anymore why I shouldn’t be winning here. I’m not too young, it’s not come too early now, so there’s no more excuses. I’ve had my five or 10 years of growing up.
“Ronnie won it (for the first time) when he was 25, which is quite old for someone that good, so if I win it this year or next year I’m still not far behind him and he’s the greatest player ever.”
The 330,000 top prize would be a welcome bonus, but Trump, who won the China Open earlier this month, does not need the money at this stage of his life.
Joining the ranks of the world champions whose portraits line the walls of the South Yorkshire theatre is his motivation.
“In my eyes it’s 10 times bigger than the other tournaments,” Trump said.
“It’s the last thing I need to top off what I wanted to do when I was a kid. I feel I’ve achieved everything else.
“To win it this year would be extra special.”
Asked if Trump has what it takes, O’Sullivan said: “Absolutely. He’s 26 and he’s at the prime age now to push on.
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