Joe Perry came back from 5-2 down to beat Barry Hawkins 6-5 in an astonishing semi-final last night.
Asked about what the snooker world’s thoughts of Joe Perry’s chances of winning the Master today Hendry said;
“Zero, to be blunt
“He’s got to trust in his ability today
“Perhaps his family will believe in him today, but the snooker world will think 0% he’s going to win today, but he’s got to trust in his ability and believe in his ability and try and enjoy this occasion.”
There is huge expectation on home favourite, Ronnie O’Sullivan today as he bids for his 7th Masters title and to overtake Stephen Hendry on Masters wins.
Asked how he felt about possibly being overtook today, Hendry said;
“Not great i must admit, but it’s inevitable.”
Asked about Ronnie O’Sullivan and the pressure on his shoulders, Hendry said;
“He will have expectation on himself. He will want to win this title today obviously. He’s got tremendous desire to do it.”
Stephen Hendry announced last week that he will be taking part in the World Senior snooker championship which will feature past and present snooker players over the age of 40.
It may also be possible that Hendry returns to professional tour especially when looking at the game as it currently stands. Most of the players winning the big tournaments are in their late 30’s – early 40’s so Hendry may still fancy his chances.
It’s no secret that Joe Perry is the underdog coming into today’s final. This is the first major final of his career.
After beating Barry Hawkins in the style he did last night, Perry could certainly bring a good match to Ronnie O’Sullivan today.
