FAST& FURIOUS

Williams: I am the quickest playerontour.. it’s about time people stopped moaning at my poxy break

MARK WILLIAMS has seen his controversial break-off shot given the official green light ahead of a titanic Crucible clash against John Higgins.

The pair have seven World Championship titles between them – sharing some epic battles at the iconic venue. Williams, 46, famously did his press conference naked ( far right) after beating Higgins 18-16 in a 2018 final viewed as one of the greatest-ever matches (with trophy, right). And Higgins (left), like Williams and also Ronnie O’sullivan in his 29th season on tour, having all turned pro in 1992, has won only one of their three classic semi-finals at the iconic Sheffield theatre venue.

But Williams triggered a storm in his first-round match by continuing with a negative tactic employed all season.

It involves rolling off just the back cushion to nestle in the pack of reds – preventing any chance of easy openers for his opponent.

But three-time winner Williams has the fastest average shot-time on tour and is one of the game’s great entertainers, and he was angry other players were consulted on the row.

He said: “I am the fastest player on tour

– there are more important things going on in the world than moaning about my poxy break-off.”

Stephen Hendry, commentating for the BBC, made his feelings clear. He said: “I hate it. Mark has used it this season, but it is very negative.”

However, WPBSA chairman Jason Ferguson said: “Asking the players for feedback was certainly not a personal attack on Mark.

“He is one of the most entertaining players ever, and a class act. The rules committee looked at it and felt there was no need for a rule change, and I agree.”

Ahead of their second-round match, Higgins, 45, admitted Williams had inflicted some of his most painful defeats at the Crucible – but is proud to be part of the Class of ’92 trio.

He said: “At this venue he’s given me three of my biggestever losses – two semis and a final. He’s played unbelievable stuff against me.

“I’ve grown up with Mark and Ronnie from junior days. I’m so proud to have come through with those two guys. Turning pro in the same year, it’s incredible.”

Williams added: “It will be another great occasion. The final three years ago was the best match I have ever been involved in.

“Thirty years after we first played we are still going. It doesn’t get any better.”