Shaun Murphy vs Wu Yize Preview & Prediction | 2026 World Snooker Championship

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Shaun Murphy seeks a second world title against first-time Crucible finalist Wu Yize, as the 2026 World Snooker Championship reaches its conclusion.

Kick-off date/time:

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Shaun Murphy vs Wu Yize prediction

Shaun Murphy is one step closer to a second world title after recording a superb 17-15 victory over four-time winner John Higgins at the semi-final stage.

From 15-13 down, the Magician reeled off the final four frames in exemplary fashion to see off the veteran, reaching his fifth Crucible final in the process. After winning the title as a 22-year-old in 2005, Murphy was runner-up in 2009, 2015 and 2021.

Murphy will take on first-time Crucible finalist Wu Yize, who is bidding to become the second Chinese player to win snooker's biggest prize, after Zhao Xintong's historic success last year.

The 22-year-old, who has delighted the Crucible crowds with his fearless brand of attacking snooker, came through one of the most dramatic finales ever seen to a last-four match in the Crucible Theatre.

Wu's semi-final opponent Mark Allen was seemingly destined to appear in his first world final, but missed a straightforward black - match ball - to win the penultimate frame. Wu mopped up to make it 16-16, and then held his nerve in a decider which finished late into the evening.

Billed as a future world champion by many, Wu has perhaps reached the Sheffield final ahead of schedule, but his incredible potting ability means he has every chance of lifting the trophy.

Murphy and Wu have only met twice before, with each winning once. They last met at the Masters in January, with the Chinese talent winning 6-2 in the round of 16.

Both players have won a tournament apiece this season, Murphy winning the British Open in September and Wu claiming the International Championship in November.

This is a tantalising final between two attacking players, and there are likely to be a number of century breaks throughout. You can make an argument for either player, but Murphy has looked the smoothest throughout the event. After nearly going out in the first round against Fan Zhengyi, he has gone from strength to strength, notably defeating reigning champion Zhao Xintong along the way. Having also defeated Xiao Guodong during his run to the final, Wu will be the fourth Chinese player the Englishman has faced in this year's tournament.

Murphy should shade it in the tactical area, and that could be the difference when all is said and done. His experience in the biggest moments far outweighs that of Wu, who is only really getting started in his career.

Wu will be a world champion, but we're backing an in-form and confident Murphy to keep him waiting a little longer.

Shaun Murphy vs Wu Yize tip: Shaun Murphy to win