‘Unplayable’ Mark Selby wins British Open

Mark Selby was described as “unplayable” after he won the British Open – his first major ranking title in almost 18 months.

The four-times world champion beat John Higgins 10-5 to win the ranking event in Cheltenham.

Mark ‘Jester’ Selby returned to his best form to become British Open champion, mixing solid tactical play with ruthless breaks when the chances presented.

The victory earned Selby the £100,000 cash prize and the Clive Everton trophy – which has became somewhat more poignant after the legendary commentator described as the ‘voice of snooker’ passed away on Friday aged 87.

Earlier this year Selby suggested he was considering retirement after he lost in the first round of the World Championship. He cited he had struggles on and off the table.

At the time Selby said: “If I decide to carry on, then I’ll probably need to seek help somewhere to try and overcome that hurdle. And if I don’t, then obviously I’ll choose to do something else.”

But now Selby is enjoying returning to winning ways. It’s his first ranking title since March last year and the win is set to kick-start his season.

Unplayable

Speaking to ITV Sport before the final, seven-times world champion Stephen Hendry said he felt Selby was back to his best form and warned he could be “unplayable” to face if that was the case.

Fans on the World Snooker Tour also said Selby’s game was unplayable after the final.

One Facebook user commented: “Congratulations Selby, you deserve it from anyone, you fought depression and overcame it, congratulations champion.”

Another said: “Almost unplayable when he’s in this type of form.”

And another snooker fan added: “When Selby is on form he is almost unplayable. Superb match! Well done Mark!”

Another comment read: “Nice to see him (Selby) back, after he thought about retirement.”