By Elliott West
“I am not going to knock the achievement I have made, there’s not many who have won more than one.
Gary Wilson
Introduction
Gary Wilson is probably one of the nicest players you could meet on the snooker tour. I recently interviewed for a podcast and was struck by how open and relaxed he was to my questioning, happy to talk about his past struggles with his mental health. I have always been impressed by Wilson’s work ethic, putting in long hours of practice at Paul Rinaldi’s North East Snooker Centre alongside his good friend Elliot Slessor. The former taxi driver has come good and recently topped off his season by claiming back-to-back Scottish Open titles in Edinburgh. Yet his 9-5 victory over Noppon Saengkham at the Meadowbank Sports Centre was the culmination of what could be seen as an average season, battling with the tips, a snooker condition that ended Patsy Fagan’s career. Gary entered this tournament having slid down to 60th on the one-year list.
The Scottish Element
There is something magical about Scotland that kicks this player from Wallsend into gear. His draw with Noppon in the final produced a brilliant display by both who were by far, deserved finalists. Yet Gary didn’t make this run look easy. His somewhat erratic performances throughout led to him biting his cue, manhandling his extension and struggling with his emotions. Yet in reality, this is often part and parcel of becoming a winner. This win means he joins Judd Trump, Mark Selby and Mark Allen in defending a Home Nations title and joins a select club of multiple-ranking titles. Wilson overcame his snooker demons by continuously potting and seeking solace in the love and support of his family. A priceless faith
Gary has been a professional since 2004 and was a finalist at the 2015 China Open and the 2021 British Open, a semi-finalist at the 2019 World Championship and won the English Under-18 Championship twice as well as the IBSF World Under-21 Championship and the English Amateur Championship has plenty more to offer snooker at only 38 years old. His break-building and ball control is amazing when he is flowing. A player whom I strongly tip to win plenty more silverware! A point proven by winning his second Home Nations title this season, the Welsh Open with a 9-4 victory over Martin O’Donnell. His third-ranking title and so well-deserved after having to wait 18 years after turning professional to win his first. A tournament that included a fabulous 147 break. Stan Chambers would be proud!
