Barry Hawkins silenced the doubters and claimed his fifth ranking title at the Welsh Open, defeating Jack Lisowski 9-5 in a compelling final in Llandudno. The victory wasn’t just about the £100,000 prize; it felt like a statement, a defiant answer to those who’ve long labeled him “too nice” to dominate the fiercely competitive world of professional snooker.
The match began with a blistering pace, Hawkins surging to a commanding 7-1 lead. But Lisowski, fueled by the momentum of a dramatic semi-final win, refused to fade. He roared back with consecutive centuries, threatening a stunning comeback that electrified the arena. Hawkins, however, possessed a steely resolve, navigating the pressure and ultimately securing the championship.
This triumph marked Hawkins’ first ranking win since the 2023 European Masters, a period where many believed a player of his undeniable talent should have added more silverware to his collection. The narrative surrounding “The Hawk” has often centered on his affable personality, with some suggesting his kindness hindered his killer instinct on the table. Hawkins, though, firmly rejects this notion.
He acknowledges past struggles with self-belief, admitting to moments of doubt throughout his career. But this win felt different, earned after agonizingly close calls at the UK Championship and German Masters. “It means the world,” Hawkins confessed, “I came close last season to a couple of big titles, I feel I deserved this one because I have been knocking on the door for a while.”
Hawkins’ journey through the Welsh Open was a testament to his skill and determination. He overcame formidable opponents like Mark Williams, Neil Robertson, and Wu Yize, showcasing a level of play that reminded everyone of his championship pedigree. He’d even considered withdrawing due to a debilitating back problem, but encouragement from fellow pros like Selby and Robertson convinced him to play on.
The whispers about Hawkins being “too nice” have followed him for years. He understands the perception, acknowledging that a ruthless edge is essential for success. Yet, he points to countless examples of sporting greats who maintain both kindness off the table and unwavering aggression during competition. “You’ve obviously got to be ruthless when you’re on the table,” he explained, “show a little bit of aggression…fire yourself up.”
Judd Trump, the world number one, believes Hawkins’ potential has always been immense. He suggests that a lack of early confidence may have held him back, estimating Hawkins could have easily amassed eight to ten ranking titles. Trump highlighted the tough draws Hawkins has faced, suggesting luck hasn’t always been on his side.
For Jack Lisowski, the final proved a bridge too far. While he celebrated a remarkable victory over John Higgins in the semi-final, securing a £150,000 bonus in the process, the emotional and physical toll was evident. He openly admitted to feeling drained, a shadow of the player who’d conquered Higgins in a thrilling decider.
“I was gone, to be honest,” Lisowski confessed. “I was very poor…maybe a hangover from last night.” Despite the disappointment, he was gracious in defeat, praising Hawkins’ performance and acknowledging his opponent’s deserved victory. He recognized the semi-final win had taken everything out of him, leaving him unable to replicate that level of play in the final.
Hawkins’ win propels him back into the world’s top ten and puts him firmly in contention for the prestigious Tour Championship. Lisowski, despite the loss, remains within striking distance, with one final event – the World Open – offering a chance to qualify. The battle for the top spots is far from over, and both players will undoubtedly be driven to succeed.
