‘I don’t think I’ve seen it happen’ – BBC pundit left in disbelief at snooker star’s crucial mistake at Masters
CHRIS WAKELIN left fans and pundits baffled after a bizarre rookie error at the Masters.
The 32-year-old committed the game-changing mistake during his 6-3 loss to Luca Brecel on Wednesday night.
Wakelin faced the 2023 world champion for a place in the quarter-finals at Ally Pally.
The World No. 15 more than held his own against Brecel in the early stages of the contest.
But an error in the ninth frame proved costly, with the Belgian taking full advantage to book his spot in the last eight.
Trailing 5-3, Wakelin had to take the frame to keep the match alive.
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The Beast looked set to do just that, with the reds nicely spread and leading 35-28.
Wakelin took the rest to play what would be a routine red into the right corner pocket.
But as he leaned in to set up the shot, he inadvertently knocked another red with his cue.
A stunned John Parrot told the BBC: "It's one of those things that you do once and you'll never do it again.
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"Unfortunately for him it's at the most important time of the match.
"It's so unusual. I don't think I've seen it happen.
"I think he just knew after that Luca was going to clear up."
Following the error, Brecel was allowed back to the table and struck a majestic break of 73 to seal the match.
One fan laughed on X: "I do this every couple of months at the local snooker hall. Hence why I'm not at the Masters!"
While another added: "Still can't believe he did this."
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Following his win, Brecel admitted he still had "things to work on" as he looks to rebound from a disappointing 2024.
The Bullet said: "There are things to work on, but I am happy with the win.
"It is very special. I think it’s more nerve-wracking than the World Championship.
"From November until now, there have been a lot of big tournaments, so I decided to really put in the work. I didn’t feel sharp today, but I’ve been feeling good.
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"The last season, I’ve not really had a chance to go really deep in tournaments...it’s tough to really play your best game.
"I need to give myself more chances in tournaments.”