Four-time champ Selby fires a 147 but still trails Brecel 9-8 at the Crucible!
Selby’s Stunning 147 Steals the Show
Four-time world champ Mark Selby thrilled the Crucible crowd by nailing a perfect 147 maximum break in frame 16. The electric atmosphere erupted as Selby calmly potted every ball, despite looking drained earlier from a gruelling semi-final with Mark Allen.
Selby said, “It was amazing how calm I felt even with the stakes so high.” After Brecel left a red hanging, Selby pounced, potting 15 reds each with blacks, then cleared the colours flawlessly. Referee Brendan Moore and Brecel himself applauded the masterclass.
Battle of the Titans: Selby vs Brecel
Belgian star Luca Brecel stormed out of the blocks early, blazing to a 6-2 lead with his flamboyant attacking snooker. But Selby fought back hard in the second session, winning three of four frames. Brecel regained a four-frame cushion with solid half-centuries, yet Selby ended the session on a high with his breathtaking 147, setting up a nail-biting final day.
Crucible History and What’s Next
Selby’s maximum is only the 10th ever recorded at the iconic Crucible, coming exactly 40 years after Cliff Thorburn’s inaugural 147 in 1983. This elite list features legends like Ronnie O’Sullivan and Stephen Hendry, who boast three maximums each, plus Jimmy White, Mark Williams, Ali Carter, John Higgins, and Neil Robertson.
Despite his dazzling break, Selby still trails Brecel 9-8. The Belgian, in blistering form, looks determined to clinch his first world title. Fans can expect an electrifying finale in this unforgettable championship showdown.
