Xiao edges out Wilson to retain Wuhan Open title

The Wuhan Open title is still held by China’s Xiao Guodong after beating Gary Wilson in England 10-9.

After John Parrott, Mark Allen, and Wilson, Xiao, 36, won the tournament in 2024, making them just the fourth player to win their first championship.

He said, “Winning a first ranking title is difficult, and a second ranking title is even more difficult.”

“It really means a lot to be able to come back to this city and successfully defend the title.”

Wilson continued to lead Xiao with three centuries in five frames, giving him an 8-6 advantage, even though Xiao had led by 2-0 and 5-3.

China’s world number 14 then regained the lead with a score of 9-8 before Wilson broke the record with a score of 52 to set up a decisive frame.

In a tense final frame, Xiao held on to win the title and the top prize of £140,000.

My mentality has improved significantly over the past year, according to Xiao.