Anthony McGill delivered a commanding performance in Edinburgh, securing a 4-1 victory over Tom Ford at the Scottish Open. The Glaswegian, playing close to home, appeared remarkably confident and in control throughout the match.
Impressive breaks of 90 and 118 propelled McGill into the last 32, where he awaits the winner of the match between Chris Wakelin and Oliver Lines. He described the match as possessing “everything,” praising the high standard of play and the competitive spirit displayed by both players.
McGill emphasized his focus on simply enjoying the experience of playing on the main stage, a mindset he believes translated directly into his performance. He noted the Edinburgh venue as a significant improvement over previous locations, citing the enthusiastic crowds and its suitability for the tournament.
Despite a couple of quieter years following a semi-final appearance at the World Championship and two ranking titles, McGill’s recent form suggests a resurgence. He currently sits at 48th in the world rankings, but has previously reached the top 16.
A strong run to the British Open final earlier this season served as a powerful indicator of his returning ability. McGill feels his best snooker is on the verge of reappearing, potentially this week or in the latter half of the season.
The narrow 10-7 defeat to Shaun Murphy in the British Open final was a source of intense disappointment for McGill. He acknowledged receiving criticism for his concise runner-up speech, but defended his reaction as a natural expression of his frustration.
McGill firmly believes that genuine disappointment is a positive sign, demonstrating his unwavering competitive drive. He explained that a brief period of reflection was all he needed to process the loss and focus on future opportunities.
He’s relishing the feeling of being a contender again, having rediscovered his winning touch on the big stage. While acknowledging his current ranking, McGill insists his desire to win remains as strong as ever.
Looking ahead, McGill is optimistic about 2026, anticipating a renewed focus on snooker and a return to peak performance. He’s determined to build on the positives from the British Open final – a rankings boost and qualification for the Grand Prix – and strive for even greater achievements.
Despite the sting of that near miss, McGill recognizes the significance of his recent progress. He understands that reaching the final was a major accomplishment, one that fuels his ambition to ultimately claim the biggest titles in the sport.
