‘Phenomenal’ – Snooker legend stunned by ‘best shot he’s ever seen’ in World Championship
Chris Wakelin has been hailed for his 'phenomenal' pots at the World Snooker Championship.
The English cueist produced a series of brilliant shots in his surprise second round victory over Mark Allen at The Crucible.
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Wakelin reeled off seven frames in a row to extend his lead to 10-2 in their race to 13, before eventually winning 13-6.
His streak included a 119 break in the tenth frame, but he saved his best cue skills for the final frame before the interval.
With the white tucked up against the cushion, Wakelin expertly sunk the yellow to the middle pocket in stunning fashion.
The shot produced a reaction from seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry on commentary.
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In response, Hendry exclaimed: "That is one of the best shots I have ever seen."
He later added: "Phenomenal, some of the best pots I've seen."
Meanwhile, fellow former world champion Shaun Murphy attempted to recreate the shot on punditry.
However, the Magician failed to replicate Wakelin's heroics with his two attempts.
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The 33-year-old's display secured an upset victory over the eighth seed in Sheffield.
Allen had been amongst the pre-tournament favourites heading into the main draw.
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He appeared to be rejuvenated following the mid-session interval,.
After returning to the table, the Pistol produced a maximum break to halt Wakelin's run of frames and reduce the deficit.
He reeled off 15 reds and 15 blacks before clearing the colours to clinch the first 147 at The Crucible since 2023.
His heroics earned him a £40,000 maximum break bonus as well as £25,000 for one lucky member of the crowd.
Wakelin was already experiencing a career-best run at The Crucible after reaching the second round for the first time.
He booked his meeting with Allen by seeing off Neil Robertson in the first round earlier this week.
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"It's magic," said 33-year-old Wakelin. "I've got a lot of confidence in my game and have played some really good stuff. I'm not going to get ahead of myself. There are some very good players left in this tournament. I'm one of them.
"The first time I came here 15 years ago I watched Mark win a first or second-round match. So to beat him, one of the greatest in our game, it's crazy."
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