Rory wins national snooker crown again
KUALA LUMPUR: Rory Thor Chuan Leong claimed his fourth national snooker crown to give himself a boost ahead of the World Open.
The former Asian champion was in his element in yesterday’s final at the S Club in Seri Kembangan, thrashing former international Mohd Reza Hassan 6-0 (67-26, 71-3, 63-16, 59-19, 60-2, 54-34).
Rory earned RM7,000 for his efforts while Reza received RM3,500.
Earlier in the semi-finals, Rory overcame former international Chooi Yew Wah 6-2 while Reza edged K.L. Tan 6-4.
Rory, who plays on the World Professional Tour, also won the national title in 2009, 2013 and 2014.
“I was dominant in the final as Reza did not play well. Overall, I’m not too happy with my performance. I was rather lucky to beat Michael Tan 4-3 in the second round,” said Rory, who did not defend his national title last year as he was competing in Europe.
“Although I have been dominant in the local scene, I am still quite far behind the Tour’s professional players.
“I need to work on my mental strength as well as the other aspects of my game,” he added.
Rory will open against world No. 30 Luca Brecel of Belgium in the July 25-31 World Open in Yushan, China.
“It will be my first appearance in the World Open. I really hope to make a lasting impression. I have never played Brecel but I hope I can beat him and go far in the tournament,” said Rory.