Trump has surprised himself with final slot
Judd Trump is hungry to scratch his Champion of Champions itch in today’s showpiece final.
The former world champion has suffered agonising final defeats to rivals Ronnie O’Sullivan and Neil Robertson in the past.
And the Juddernaught is determined to banish those painful memories with a maiden title at the illustrious invitational event in Bolton.
“I’ve come close a couple of times, but I’ve not managed to get over the line,” rued Trump.
“Hopefully I can win it, tick it off my list, and be the face of the event next year.
“I want to win every event I play in. They’re all special to me, but this one is extra special.
“This is a massive event. It’s certainly one of the biggest events on the calendar.
“It’s all the best players in the world, it’s a special atmosphere, and it’s an event I think is very special.”
It’s been a quiet start to the season by the world No. 2’s high standards.
Trump hasn’t lifted any silverware since March and had only reached two quarter-finals during the season before this week.
And he added: “My start to the season hasn’t been amazing so to do what I’ve done here has come as a bit of a surprise. To get back to the final is good. This is a special event to me because they are always trying to things.
“It’s a very difficult tournament to do well in because it’s all the top players in the world, so I’m pleased to be in another final.”
The talented potter hasn’t been at his sparkling best so far this week.
But he’s impressively won 16 frames on the bounce to reach his third final at the event.
And Trump has a lot left in the tank in his bid to go one step further than his failed final attempts in 2014 and 2019.
“I’ve not really stepped out of first or second gear really,” admitted Trump.
“I’ve been consistent and I’ve played okay, but there hasn’t been anything special from me yet.
“I’ve been nowhere near my brilliant best. But I’ve learned to battle through when I’m not playing my best.
“I think my B and C game is good enough to compete with the top players.”