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Mark Allen Holds Off Zhou Yuelong Comeback to Win English Open Thriller

Posted : 22 September 2025

Mark Allen overcame a remarkable fightback from China’s Zhou Yuelong to win the English Open in a dramatic final-frame decider, claiming his first ranking title in nearly two years.

 

The Northern Irishman looked firmly in control after racing into a 6-2 and then 7-3 lead in Sunday’s final in Brentwood. However, Zhou responded with five consecutive frames to move in front for the first time, leaving Allen under intense pressure.

 

Despite the momentum shift, the former world number one showed his trademark resilience, winning the last two frames to seal a 9-8 victory. The contest, which stretched over seven hours and two sessions, delivered one of the most gripping finishes of the season.

 

The triumph marks Allen’s 12th ranking crown and his first since the 2024 Players Championship. Alongside the £100,000 winner’s cheque, the 39-year-old also lifted the Steve Davis Trophy for the first time in his career.

 

Allen’s path to the final had been equally grueling, with tight wins over Stuart Bingham, Ding Junhui, Elliot Slessor, and Jak Jones—all settled in deciding frames. His fighting spirit once again proved decisive in the showdown against Zhou, who was chasing a maiden ranking title.

 

Reflecting on the victory, Allen praised his opponent’s performance. “Zhou battled really hard in that second session and played some great snooker. He put me under pressure and I missed some shots I shouldn’t have. But at 8-7 down, I managed to switch on again and finish strongly,” he said.

 

Zhou, who had beaten former world champions Mark Williams, Luca Brecel, and Mark Selby en route to the final, produced some outstanding snooker in his comeback. A break of 53 even gave him an 8-7 advantage, but Allen’s composure in the closing frames ultimately proved decisive.

 

Allen admitted fatigue had been a factor during the day but credited his ability to dig deep when it mattered most. “I felt so tired all day, but at 8-7 down I told myself it was make-or-break. That gave me the energy to push through,” he explained.

 

The victory not only reaffirms Allen’s status as one of the game’s top competitors but also extends his reputation for delivering in high-pressure moments.

 

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