THISWIN’SFOR YOU MY LOVE
SCOTTISH OPEN NEIL’S THE CHAMP Aussie dedicates glory to his partner who’s recovering well from battle with depression
COMEBACK king Neil Robertson produced a great escape to win the Scottish Open in dramatic fashion – before dedicating the title to partner Millie.
The Aussie ace quenched an 18-month thirst for a ranking triumph by bravely battling back from 8-4 behind to beat surprise package Cao Yupeng 9-8 at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow.
Robertson’s ranking title drought coincided with his partner’s battles with depression and, with tears in his eyes, he said last night: “It’s the fairytale ending to the year for me.
“The fact Millie’s getting the better of depression and anxiety is good enough for me for Christmas. I’m so proud of her and thankfully I could repay her tonight by winning the title.”
World No.67 Yupeng missed a tricky black that would have clinched a memorable first title 9-7 and paid the ultimate price in the final frame as Robertson lifted the Stephen Hendry trophy.
The champion, who tasted success for the fourth time on Scottish soil, said: “I have no idea how I won that.
“Cao was millimetres away with that black in the penultimate frame but it rattled and stayed over the hole. To be honest I feel terrible because Cao completely outplayed me to go 8-4.
“It’s probably the best anyone has ever played against me in a final and he thoroughly deserved to win. It’s my fourth ranking title in Scotland so maybe I’ve got some Scottish blood in me with the Robertson surname.”
Yupeng had already pocketed £22,000 for his 147 earlier in the week. Inspired by that feat he was set to pocket the £70,000 top prize before the wheels came off in spectacular fashion, allowing Robertson to capture a 13th ranking crown.
Yupeng, who took home £30,000 as runner-up, said: “When I got close to winning I just felt the pressure really badly.
“It’s not enough to lose from that far in front. I don’t have a strong enough heart. After 8-4 Neil potted everything and put me under a lot of pressure.”
One disappointment for organisers was the number of empty seats for last night’s final and Stephen Hendry believes a change of venue would enhance the competition in Scotland.
He said: “Maybe they (the organisers) need to look for a smaller venue because the current place lacks a bit of atmosphere in my opinion.
“It would be great to see more fans there as the tournament grows. Maybe you could start smaller and grow from there.”