Snooker stars issue congratulations to Jack Lisowski after emotional maiden title glory

A realisation of a 28-year dream, Lisowski’s long road to a maiden ranking event title comes after overcoming Hodgkin lymphoma as a teenager, six final defeats, a dip in form and slip down the rankings, and recently coming to terms with the unexpected death of his father earlier in the year.

On the outside looking in, there was nothing to suggest that Teenage Cancer ambassador Lisowski would break his duck in Belfast, but with new equipment and having teamed up with revered coach Chris Henry and installed a new work ethic, the 34-year-old ousted world number one Judd Trump, 9-8, in a pulsating finale to lift The Alex Higgins Trophy.

Lisowski exorcised demons against friend and former housemate Trump having lost to him in his three most recent ranking finals, and been on an eight-match losing streak to him overall.

Having battled back from a frame’s deficit on six occasions throughout the final, Lisowski - roared on by a knowledgeable and record Waterfront Hall crowd - got the job done to become the World Snooker Tour’s newest first-time champion since Lei Peifan at last December’s Scottish Open.

No-one on the snooker circuit is closer to Lisowski than Trump himself. With less than two years between them in age they have grown up on the scene together, and were in each other’s company at a restaurant in Hong Kong when Lisowski received the devastating news of his dad’s passing. They were due to play each other in the World Grand Prix the next day.

Following a warm embrace between the two immediately after the winning balls had been sunk, Trump - who had been going for a record-extending fifth Northern Ireland Open crown - was delighted for his mate and paid tribute to his success after such professional and personal heartbreak in recent years.

“I’m so pleased for Jack” said Trump when speaking to TNT Sports in the arena.

"I'm probably a lot happier than if I'd have won. I gave it my absolute all. Jack fully deserved the win and there's no person happier for him than me. The first title is so special, what he's been through, his whole life really. I'm glad to be a friend.”

Lisowski repaid the compliment with a passionate response: “I just want to say to Judd, he's been my best friend since I was about 14. We were in Hong Kong eight months ago when we got the message about my dad. Can I say to Judd, you are the closest thing I'll get to a brother and I love you."

Stars post messages on social media to applaud Lisowski’s achievement

There has been a large outpouring of emotion on social media with familiar names tributing Lisowski’s glory.

Home hero Mark Allen, who was eliminated in the semi-finals by Trump, said on X: @JackLisowski your dad would be so proud!!!!! So happy for you!!

Former world number three and now esteemed commentator and pundit Neal Foulds also messaged on X: “So delighted for Jack Lisowski tonight winning his first ever ranking event in Belfast. After such a difficult 2025 for him maybe it was all written in the stars.”

Over on Instagram, Stephen Hendry uploaded a picture of Lisowski with the trophy and a post of “No words needed.”

Twelve-time world women’s champion Reanne Evans also said on Instagram and X: “Knowing Jack so many years...no-one has a single bad word to say about him. Fantastic guy fantastic player. The tears for him are real. Proud.”

World Professional Billiards and Snooker Chairman Jason Ferguson, a former top 32 star, wrote on X: “Congratulations Jack, everyone delighted for you, including your opponent, Judd.”

Having been a fans’ favourite for a number of years because of his attacking and free-flowing style of play, and laid-back demeanour, Lisowski is now also a champion at the highest level, and no-one can ever take that away from him.