An immersion
into the world of billiards

This year, snooker has clearly transcended its usual boundaries. Not only has the World Championship come to an end, but it has also radically changed perceptions of the game and rewritten a history that seemed to adhere to strict rules. The matches brought unexpected twists and turns, shifting attention to new names, extraordinary events and unprecedented results. The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship were the subject of heated discussions, not only among loyal fans but also within the entire professional snooker community.

The main results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship

The tournament ended with a duel that no analyst could have predicted. The final was not a duel between the greats. In the decisive match, a player who was not in the top 32 of the rankings faced a Chinese player who had worked his way through three qualifying rounds. The final of the 2025 World Snooker Championship became a scenario in which it was not the names, but the concrete actions that determined the outcome.

The match lasted 33 frames. The score fluctuated between +4 and -2, with no series providing a psychological advantage. The leader changed every three games. Pace, instability, emotional volatility: each episode increased the tension. The 134-point break in frame 29 was the decisive turning point that changed the dynamics of the game. The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship were the most unusual final in the last 15 years.

The sensation of the year: a new champion without status.

The big unknown of the tournament – who was not a member of the Main Tour, did not participate in qualifying tournaments and had no sponsorship contracts – won the world championship. An amateur snooker player won the world championship, news that surprised the experts. He made it through the entire qualifying round without losing a single match, eliminated three former champions and achieved the maximum break twice.

Who became world snooker champion in 2025?

The 22-year-old Chinese player, who had previously participated in national tournaments, received a wild card for the qualifying stage. Victory in each match was accompanied by an aggressive style: attacking from the first shot, foregoing defensive tactics. The winner demonstrated a model of the new school of snooker: high speed, risk, dominance through initiative. His average shot time was 13.2 seconds, the fastest in the tournament.

Results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship: stars under pressure

The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship showed a shift in the balance of power. The leading players of the past decades could not keep up with the new wave. Ronnie O’Sullivan started the 2025 World Championship with absolute dominance. In the first round, his opponent could not keep up with him. 10:2: a crushing victory, supported by two series of over 90 points and tactical perfection. However, the next match ended with a surprise. The 24-year-old Indian snooker player, a participant in the Asian tour, played six frames in a row without making any significant mistakes. Each move was like a precisely calculated mathematical equation. Ronnie responded with instability: a series of mistakes, tactical indecision and a lack of power in his game. There was not a single break of more than 50 points. The opponent took advantage of every opportunity. The result was a premature end to the tournament, which was seen as the symbol of an era.

Mark Williams did not reach the final, despite having played smoothly throughout the tournament. In the quarter-finals, he was leading 10-8 but then gave away three frames in a row. The decisive frame came after a mistake on an easy red ball. The pressure that had built up during the evening became insurmountable. Williams left the arena without giving any interviews. The final frame lasted 43 minutes and was an example of how the younger generation is supplanting the classics thanks to their stamina and psychological superiority. The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship definitively closed the cycle in which the names O’Sullivan, Williams and Higgins set the tone. They did not even make it to the semi-finals.

Zhao Xintong and the generational change

The legends were replaced by fighters from a new generation. Zhao Xintong played the World Snooker Championship in the style of an aggressive general. The average duration of a series was 48 points. The aggressiveness was noticeable from the first shot. The player did not seek safe solutions but launched an attack in 82% of the matches. During the tournament, he scored 738 points, which is an absolute record for the modern format.

In the semi-finals, Zhao encountered resistance, where the defence exceeded his pace. The player from Wales forced him to fight for his position. Xintong lost his precision. At decisive moments, he missed from close range, lost his concentration in the series and even succumbed in tactical duels. The final session ended with a 6-10 defeat. Despite this failure, the player became a symbol of the transition from a calm pace to immediate decisions. His game laid the foundation for a new vision of tactics. The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship did not bring Zhao a title, but they did put him in the spotlight of coaches and sponsors.

Financial results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship and prizes

The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship showed not only sporting but also commercial changes. The total prize money for the tournament rose to £4.5 million, an increase of 8% compared to 2024. The winner received £650,000 and the runner-up £260,000. Each of them was awarded £130,000 for reaching the semi-finals. Additional bonuses of £100,000 were awarded for the best series and £50,000 for the best shot.

The commercial figures for the tournament showed expansion outside Europe. Broadcasts in Asia exceeded 35 hours and the number of broadcasts via mobile platforms increased by 40%. For the first time, snooker appeared in the trends of the major Chinese and Indian social networks. This meant an injection of new capital, including contracts with five new brands that had never worked with sport before.

Classification and long-term consequences

The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship led to radical changes in the tournament system. The new champion, who had previously played in the amateur league, automatically earned the right to participate in the Main Tour for two years. He started in 17th place in the rankings, the highest position for a player with no experience in professional competitions. His victory changed the analysis vectors in the betting sector: from predictions about names to the evaluation of unstable but promising newcomers.

The clubs changed their selection criteria. Whereas experience in qualifying tournaments was previously decisive, the emphasis is now on technical skills, game speed and the ability to make decisions under pressure. National academies have begun to revise their methods: faster decision-making, training in short series and simulating stressful situations are now part of basic training.

A turning point in history

In 2025, snooker reached a turning point. The victory of an outsider, the fall of the greats, commercial growth and a change of pace: all this marked a new direction in the evolution of the sport. The tournament broke with the old structures and showed that the title of champion is no longer reserved for the giants of the rankings. The results of the 2025 World Snooker Championship will go down in history as a symbol of an era of change.

Visually, it is a simple cube with a powdered surface. In practice, it is an indispensable element that determines the control over the impact, grip and stability of the cue. Every professional knows that without a high-quality coating, the cue slips and the direction of the ball becomes unpredictable. The answer to the question of what chalk is used for in billiards goes beyond ritual and becomes a technical justification.

Mechanics of adhesion: what is chalk used for in billiards?

In billiards, a solid object (the tip of the cue) must come into contact with a sphere at a variable angle. At a standard collision speed of approximately 1 m/s, the surface of the ball offers resistance, especially in the case of lateral contact. Without preparing the tip, the cue slips and instead of a precise shot, a parasitic pulling force is created. To eliminate this slipping, a coating is used that provides microfriction. The answer to the question of what chalk is used for in billiards lies precisely in this area: in stabilising the contact angle and fixing the moment of impact.

With a shot at an angle of 15°, the slipping without coating reaches 60% of the total force of the impulse. This causes uncontrolled rotation of the ball and a deviation from the trajectory. The chalk reduces this percentage to 10-12%, maintaining the direction, especially when a sideways spin is applied.

History of billiard chalk: from alabaster to standard

The first references to billiard cues date back to the mid-19th century. Initially, alabaster powder and ground limestone were used, which were applied by hand to leather stickers. The breakthrough came with the invention of a compact block in the shape of a cue.

The Brunswick company was the first to start mass production. After several experiments with the composition and shape, a universal structure was found. Later, engineer Anthony Pell proposed a formula that increased adhesion by 30%. And inventor William Hoskins obtained a patent for a composition with volcanic rock, which increased the abrasive power and stability of the coating.

Composition of billiard chalk: powder technology

Billiard chalk has nothing to do with its counterpart in office supplies. The basis is a mixture of hard abrasive and softening binder. The standard composition consists of 60 to 80% finely ground limestone, 15 to 20% silicates and 5 to 10% wax or paraffin mixtures. This ratio provides the necessary balance between softness and adhesive strength.

When applied, the chalk particles fill the micro-pores of the sticker, creating an adhesive layer. When struck, this layer partially embeds itself in the surface of the ball, locking in the trajectory. Without this layer, the cue loses control at high speeds, especially with angled or sharp shots.

Practical application: why is chalk necessary in billiards?

Applying chalk requires precision. Circular movements without pressure ensure even coverage. Too much chalk creates unnecessary dust that impairs contact. One layer is effective for up to 2-3 shots. Professionals renew the layer before each critical shot, especially when performing a spin or a precise action with a sideways cut. With a sticker diameter of 12 mm, approximately 0.1-0.2 g of chalk is required for a series of five shots. The thickness of the layer should not exceed 0.2 mm; if it is thicker, the particles begin to come off, fall on the cloth and disrupt the movement of the ball.

How to choose chalk for billiards: criteria and nuances

What type of chalk is needed for billiards: when choosing, you need to take into account the conditions in which you will be playing. There is no universal option: different situations require different properties. The basis for the choice is determined by the structure of the particles, i.e. their size, shape and adhesive properties. For training, a coarse grain composition is most suitable, as it provides reliable contact even with imperfect technique. This chalk forgives mistakes and stays on the cue ball longer, especially during sessions lasting many hours. It helps to stabilise hand movement and is suitable for beginners who are learning the basic shots.

The situation is different in competitions. Here, it is not durability that is important, but the precision of microcontrol. Microdispersion chalk is applied in a thin layer, rubbed in quickly and ensures perfect adhesion with minimal coverage thickness. This is especially important for shots with a fine cut, where fractions of a millimetre determine whether you hit or miss. Classic tournament games require frequent renewal of the layer, but guarantee maximum controllability.

An additional parameter is the behaviour of the chalk in the glue. If applied evenly, the layer should remain in place for at least 2-3 strokes without drying out, crumbling or coming off. At the same time, the glue should not change its structure and the cue should not lose its balance.

Signs of high-quality chalk

Why chalk is necessary for billiards becomes clear during the game. But when choosing chalk on the shop shelf, a clear set of characteristics is required, including:

1. Homogeneous texture. Quality chalk has a smooth and finely distributed surface, without impurities, lumps or solid inclusions. Lumps indicate incorrect pressing technology or uneven drying. When applied, this structure causes ‘spots’ that cause the chalk to slip when struck.
2. Minimal detachment. Poor-quality chalk detaches from the sticker with a light touch, especially when the cue is at an angle. This loss of adhesion renders the coating ineffective. Good-quality chalk remains on the surface even with a slight vibration.
3. Dry but adhesive structure. The surface of the chalk should not be greasy or chalky in the classic sense of the word. When touched, it should not feel like powder or talc. Instead, it should give a slight feeling of ‘adhesion’, which ensures the transfer of microparticles to the cue.
4. Permanent marking on the surface of the ball. After impact, a barely noticeable streak or imprint remains on the ball, indicating correct contact and good adhesion. The markings indicate firm contact and high sensitivity of the coating.
5. Compatibility with the sticker. When using chalk, the sticker should not crack, soften or lose its shape. Some compositions contain chemical additives that reduce the sticker’s service life by 20-30%. Checking compatibility is a mandatory part of the selection process.
6. Absence of oily components. Some cheap samples contain oils or additives that make the chalk visually shinier. These components form a film on the surface of the ball, disrupt the trajectory and increase the coefficient of friction.
7. Shape and density of the block. The cube should have well-defined edges, should not crumble when pressed, and should not break when twisted. Low-density chalk crumbles during active play, loses its shape, and quickly becomes unusable. The optimal density is a compromise between ease of application and stability during storage.

Conclusion

Billiards is a game of precision, not power. The entire logic is based on the predictability of contact. This raises the question of what chalk is used for in billiards, not as a decorative element, but as a technical aid to control grip. Professional players never miss an opportunity to renew the layer, because they know that it is not muscle strength that matters, but the coating. And precision in billiards is the result of thousands of correctly prepared shots.

Professional billiards begins not with arm strength, but with eye accuracy. Every effective shot consists of dozens of decisions made before the shot: choosing the point, calculating the trajectory, controlling the pause, the angle of contact, body orientation, and fixing the gaze. At an intense pace of play, aiming technique in billiards is the foundation of skill. An error of a fraction of a millimetre leads to a deviation of tens of centimetres. Therefore, aiming requires a system, not a feeling.

Billiards guide: technique

Every game begins with an analysis of the table. A professional player draws a line between the point of contact of the cue and the centre of the target ball. The aiming technique in billiards is based on an imaginary axis that passes through two objects, the cue and the target, and continues to the pocket. The closer the angle is to a direct shot, the greater the chance that the shot will be effective.

Linear dependencies

A deviation of only 2° from the calculated line reduces the accuracy of a shot in billiards by 9–13%. In addition, the degree of deviation is influenced by the distance between the balls: the further the cue ball is from the target ball, the greater the effect of even the smallest deviation. Professional players focus their gaze not on the line, but through the point of contact to obtain a clear spatial image.

Fixation system: gaze, body, cue

One of the crucial factors in aiming is the synchronisation of the body, the cue and the line of sight. The shoulders, elbows, hands, head and cue must form a single plane in relation to the table. When aiming in billiards, turning the body, tilting the shoulders, turning the elbow or moving the centre of the head is a no-no. Any deviation causes a twist in the line of strike and shifts the point of impact.

Working with position

The height above the cue influences the viewing angle. The optimal level is 15 to 20 cm from the cue to the centre of the chin. This distance ensures maximum clarity of vision while maintaining depth perception. Changing this height influences the subjective perception of the aiming point and creates a false sense of direction.

Calculation of the point of contact in billiards: the essence of ‘cutting’ in the aiming technique

The essence of aiming is not to hit the ball, but to hit the point, which is located on an imaginary line of contact. The greater the angle between the cue’s trajectory and the direction to the pocket, the more difficult it is to choose the direction of contact. The technique of aiming in billiards requires an understanding of the concept of cutting: the clear definition of the point where the cue must hit to get the target ball into the pocket.

At a cutting angle of 30°, the target shifts between 15 and 17 cm from the axis at a distance of one metre. An error in the point of contact of just 3 mm changes the direction between 6 and 8° and moves the ball between 20 and 25 cm from the centre of the pocket. The sharper the angle, the smaller the tolerance.

Controlling the pause: cadence as a precision instrument

Aiming does not end at the moment of impact. The last 2 seconds before the shot create a feeling of stability. The mechanics include a pause between the final swing and the shot itself. At that moment, the gaze is focused on the point of contact, the body is stabilised and breathing stops. Eliminating abrupt movements from the rhythm increases the stability of the shot.

Acceleration dynamics

The impulse at the moment of impact reduces accuracy by 15-20%, especially when trying to control the force. A smooth and even movement of the hand guarantees the stability of the line. It is precisely through an even rhythm that professionals achieve repeatability: when striking at the same angle and speed, the result is predictable.

Errors in aiming technique in billiards: perceptual pitfalls

If your gaze deviates 1 cm from the centre of the ball, accuracy decreases to 76%. Repeating these errors during the game reduces effectiveness to 55% hits at an average level of preparation. Beginners’ mistakes:

1. Focusing on the pool: the gaze wanders beyond the target ball, causing the cue to shift to one side.
2. Turning the head during the stroke: the change in the viewing angle changes the coordinates.
3. Ignoring the position of the feet: the turned body deviates from the line of stroke.
4. The angle of the cue: too high or too low support affects stability and the contact point.
5. Lack of a practice swing: the lack of prior alignment of the movement increases the spread.

If the gaze deviates 1 cm from the centre of the ball, accuracy decreases to 76%. Repeating these mistakes during the game reduces effectiveness to 55% hits at an average level of preparation.

Beginner and first shot: take it easy with the basics

The mistake beginners make is that they want to do everything at once. A simple shot then becomes a marathon of decisions. The technique of aiming in billiards requires a pause and breaking down the steps. The first step is choosing the point. The second is determining the line. The third is checking the balance of the body. The ability to break down the process into stages simplifies the execution.

Working with the diametric illusion

The problem of assessing the centre of the ball is one of the most common obstacles. The visual and geometric centring do not match due to perspective. When viewed from above, the ball appears to be shifted. To avoid mistakes, professionals do not rely on their memory, but on fixation eye contact, basing themselves on the lines and not on the shape of the object.

The shot as the culmination of the calculation: the aiming technique in billiards

An effective shot does not depend on force, but on direction. Even at low speed, the cue can hit the target accurately if the correct line is maintained. The aiming technique in billiards requires that the energy be applied along the vector, and not at an angle. A shot with rotation or lateral momentum without the proper preparation changes the point of contact. Professionals assess not only the point, but also the degree of pressure. In a short-distance shot, excess energy causes a rebound, while in a long-distance shot, this energy may not be sufficient. Therefore, training direction is more important than working on power.

Conclusion

Real progress does not begin with another hour at the table, but with the moment when you focus on the process rather than the goal. The technique of aiming in billiards is not based on the movement of the hand, but on thinking. A structure emerges: observation, alignment, stabilisation, conscious stroke. It is precisely this cycle that the professional creates. The result is not a series of successful shots, but the ability to predict the result before the shot.

Behind the apparent simplicity and relaxed atmosphere of billiards lies intensive work for both body and mind. This sport does not require extreme physical strength, but it perfectly trains a whole range of skills: mental concentration, emotional stability, sharp eyes and precise movements. After a few weeks of regular play, you will notice the health benefits of billiards: it is not tiring, but rather gently harmonises bodily functions and contributes to an overall improvement in health.

Coordination and posture: the health benefits of billiards

Billiards uses more than 60 muscles in the body. Aiming, striking with the cue, bending forward, maintaining balance: all of this requires precise functioning of the muscles in the back, shoulders and legs. The lower back, forearm muscles and glutes are particularly activated. The player calculates the angle, determines their posture, holds it for a few seconds and performs a controlled movement. The combination of static and dynamic tension strengthens the muscle structure without overloading the joints. The health benefits of billiards include a more stable posture. Regular play develops muscle memory: the back becomes straighter, and a hunched posture and stiffness disappear. The risk of scoliosis in adolescents decreases and the posture of adults improves.

Vision and focus: optical trainer without glasses

Constantly changing focus from one ball to another, aiming from different angles and lighting: all this forms a training for the eyes similar to ophthalmological exercises. The benefits of billiards for eye health are reflected in strengthening the eye muscles and improving the ability to quickly adjust focus.

The player has to switch between near and far dozens of times during a match. This reduces eye fatigue, reduces the likelihood of accommodation spasms in children and the progression of myopia in adults. It also improves spatial awareness. The player analyzes the geometry, distances and location of objects more quickly. These skills are useful not only at the table, but also increase self-confidence while driving, spatial orientation, and working with maps and digital models.

Nervous system and psyche: anti-stress without pills

Psycho-emotional tension has become the normal state of modern man. Office overload, digital overstimulation and information overload lead to increased anxiety, irritability and sleep disorders. Billiards acts as a temporary release. The game reduces the level of cortisol, the stress hormone, and stabilizes the functioning of the hypothalamic-pituitary system.

The biochemistry of rest

During a quiet game, the brain areas responsible for motor coordination, tactile sensitivity, visual perception and analysis are activated. This sets in motion a cascade of hormonal reactions: the production of dopamine, serotonin and acetylcholine, neurotransmitters responsible for pleasure, concentration and stress resistance, increases.

The benefit of billiards for the health of the nervous system lies precisely in the fact that it changes the psyche from the “fight or flight” mode to the “think and move” mode. The player does not need to achieve any athletic result. It is enough to play regularly for 1-2 hours a week to feel a decrease in underlying anxiety, an increase in energy level and an improvement in sleep quality.

Health benefits of billiards: emotional release through concentration

Modern attention often works in a distracted mode: notifications, screen changes, constant changes. Billiards brings back focus. Every action requires complete concentration: from choosing the shot to calculating the trajectory. This creates a “time capsule” effect, where consciousness is completely immersed in the task and external stimuli are kept outside.

Model of meditation in motion

The psychological health benefits of billiards are manifested in an effect similar to that of meditation: calm breathing, precise motor skills, internal concentration. The brain enters a beta or even alpha rhythm, waves characteristic of deep relaxation and creative thinking.

This form of emotional regulation is especially useful for children with ADHD, adults with an anxious nervous system and people suffering from chronic fatigue. Through the game with precise motor skills and a calm rhythm, the person imperceptibly restores his nervous system, increases his resistance to stress and balances his emotional state.

Brain and thinking: mathematics, logic and strategy

Billiards is visualized physics. The ball moves according to the law of reflection, the energy is distributed by the shot, every mistake is returned. The environment forms the player’s analytical thinking in practice. The advantage of billiards for the health of the brain lies in the simultaneous functioning of several cognitive processes.

Mental load at all levels:

1. Logic and strategy: for each shot, the player evaluates 3-4 possible options, calculates the consequences and chooses the most rational one.
2. Working memory: not only the positions of the balls are remembered, but also previous shots and the strengths and weaknesses of the opponent.
3. Spatial thinking: the ability to estimate distance, angle and speed is constantly being worked on.
4. Planning: each next step depends on the current shot. A wrong decision complicates not only the current moment, but also the course of the entire game.

This intellectual activity activates the formation of new synaptic connections in the prefrontal cortex, the area responsible for decision-making. Therefore, the benefits of billiards for brain health are particularly evident in people over 40: active neuroplasticity is preserved longer, the risk of dementia decreases and the level of cognitive flexibility is maintained.

Intellectual load at the level of chess

The field of vision in billiards is a space in which every element has an influence on the general course of the game. The position of the cue, the position of the hand, the angle of the body, the force of the shot… All this requires immediate analysis and adjustment.

The player simultaneously analyses the current position and predicts the course of the game. This requires a synchronized operation of:

• the parietal lobe (spatial orientation);
• the prefrontal cortex (decision-making);
• the cerebellum (motor precision and balance).

This integration activates the entire brain: it increases reaction speed, improves concentration and develops the ability to make logical connections. This is particularly useful in the professional sphere: engineers, doctors, pilots, analysts… anyone who works with large amounts of information and needs to think precisely.

Health benefits of billiards: conclusions

The health benefits of billiards lie in its versatility. This activity does not require special preparation, is accessible to all ages and at the same time provides constant physical and mental training. This discipline is not a substitute for the gym, but a complement to it, because it strengthens posture, develops attention and improves mood.

It is not just a form of entertainment. It is a tool for finding balance between body and mind, tension and relaxation, internal concentration and external activity. You can start playing at any time and within a month you will notice the beneficial effects on your body.

Billiards requires not only precision and strategic thinking, but also quality equipment. Choosing the right tool for the game is a process that requires taking into account several important characteristics. We are talking about the cue for Russian billiards: they are the parameters that determine stroke precision, ball control and playing comfort. Length, weight, balance, material and cut – all characteristics influence the playing qualities of the instrument. Let’s take a look at the main selection criteria that help beginners and professional players find the perfect cue.

How to choose a cue for Russian billiards: main parameters and features?

Choosing the optimal instrument depends on playing style, training level and personal preferences. A poorly chosen cue can worsen the accuracy of strokes, reduce ball control and cause discomfort in the game.

Key features:

1. Length – affects grip comfort and stroke amplitude.
2. Weight – determines the power and control of movement.
3. Balance – determines stability and accuracy.
4. Shank diameter – affects glide smoothness and stroke accuracy.
5. Teeth – determine rigidity and shock absorption.
6. Material – responsible for durability and feel.

Each parameter plays an important role and the right combination of properties ensures maximum comfort and performance.

Which cue to choose for Russian billiards: length, weight and balance

The right cue is not just an instrument, but an extension of the player’s hand. Length, weight and balance have a direct impact on the comfort, accuracy and efficiency of your strokes. By taking these parameters into account, you can choose the best option that will help you master the process and improve your skills.

Length: the importance of choosing the right one

The standard length of a cue for Russian billiards is 160 cm, but depending on the game participant’s preferences and height, the parameter can range from 155 to 165 cm. The length determines the range of movement and comfort of the grip. Instruments with a length of 155-157 cm are suitable for players with a small stature or players who prefer short-distance technical strokes. Cues of 160 cm are considered a universal choice, as they offer a balance between agility and precision. The longer 163-165 cm variants are suitable for taller players and players who use a greater range of movement in their strokes.

Weight – striking the balance between power and control

The weight of a Russian billiard cue affects the power of the stroke, the speed of the ball movement and the comfort of holding the instrument. Weighing from 680 to 750 g, you can choose the best option based on your playing style. Lightweight formats in the 680-710 g range provide smooth and accurate shots, ideal for technical players who prefer control over ball position. The average weight of 710-730g is considered the golden mean, as it offers a balance between accuracy and power. Cues heavier than 730g are suitable for players who prefer an aggressive style, as the higher weight improves impact and facilitates attacking play.

Cue balance: the key to accurate shots

Balance is the distribution of mass along the length of the cue, which affects how easily you hit and control ball movement. A centrally balanced cue offers comfortable control and smooth movements, making it ideal for technical and positional play. When the centre is shifted to the tip, the instrument becomes more powerful, which is useful for the aggressive style, as the increased inertia allows you to push the balls harder.

The best cue for Russian billiards: material and cut

The choice of material and design determines the cue’s durability, rigidity and shock absorption. The correctly chosen variety affects the game feel, and the technology of the cuts helps to reduce vibrations and increase the stability of strokes.

Material: which woods are used

The classic cue for Russian billiards is made of natural woods, as they provide durability, cushioning and a pleasant feel. One of the most popular woods is ash, which combines rigidity and moderate elasticity, making it ideal for beginners. Maple is used to make lightweight models, as it has a soft texture that offers good cushioning. Professionals often choose hornbeam, as it is characterised by high rigidity and durability, making the cue more stable on impact. Ebony is found in high-quality instruments and is characterised by high density and heaviness, making strokes as powerful and precise as possible.

Grooves: how it affects playing

Grooves are special notches in the construction of the cue that reduce vibrations and make strokes stable. They influence rigidity, resilience and control. Straight grooves ensure even load distribution, making the cue versatile for different playing styles. Deep notches increase rigidity and shock absorption and help minimise the effect of vibration on stroke accuracy.

Russian billiards cue for beginners and pros

The cue for beginners should

1. Medium length (160 cm) – provides a comfortable grip.
2. Weight 700-720 g – makes it easier to control your strokes.
3. Made of ash or maple – provides flexibility and stability of strokes.

Experienced players choose models according to their personal preferences:

1. Customised balance – adapts the cue to your playing style.
2. Complex shaped teeth – reduces vibrations during strokes.
3. Elite materials – increase feel and durability.

Conclusion

Choosing a cue for Russian billiards is an important process that affects accuracy, comfort and control in the game. The main criteria are length, weight, balance, material and cut. Novice players should pay attention to universal models that help them adapt to the playing process. Professionals choose cues taking into account playing style and technical parameters. A correctly chosen instrument is the basis of success, as it allows you to develop your skills and achieve new victories.

The green has always been famous for its unpredictability, but one player could change the nature of the game. Mark Selby, known as the ‘Master of Defence’, turned tactics into an art form and proved that in snooker, strategy is more important than impulsiveness. His approach to every game has become a benchmark for professionals. One of the most decorated players of our time, he has shown that the ability to read the opponent and control the pace is the key to success.

Mark Selby – snooker champion in his career

Mark Selby’s debut in 1999 was the start of a long road to the top. Born in Leicester, he started his career early thanks to the support of his coaches and tireless work on his technique. His first major success was reaching the final of the Welsh Open in 2003, where he first established himself as a promising player.

In Leicester, famous for its sporting tradition, Mark honed his skills by studying his opponents’ every move. Training focused on building defence and analysing tactical scenarios. At the time, Selby was the first young player to take a strategic approach to his game, turning every match into a game of chess.

How Mark Selby became world champion: tactics in tournament snooker

The athlete’s road to four world titles in 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2021 showed how, with the right technique and the ability to adapt to circumstances, you can beat even the strongest opponent.

2014: first world title

In 2014, Mark Selby faced Ronnie O’Sullivan, one of the most aggressive and unpredictable players in snooker history, in the final. The 18-14 score reflected his excellent tactics to contain his opponent’s attacking style. Selby used a long series of defensive strokes to disrupt O’Sullivan’s rhythm. These moves forced his opponent into errors, which Selby took advantage of to build up his series.

2016: Perfection of strategy and confidence

The second snooker title of 2016 came thanks to Mark Selby’s victory over Dean Junhui. The 18-14 score once again confirmed that strategy is the most important weapon. In this match, Selby was effective in making breaks and long rallies to catch his opponent off guard.

Mark, for example, showed a different tactical approach in every game:

1. Against fast players, he used long defensive series to reduce his attacking chances.
2. Against slow and cautious players, he used surprise attacks to force a change in style of play.

2017 against John Higgins

The 2017 final against John Higgins was one of the most intense matches of Selby’s career. The start of the match showed a clear Higgins advantage, but Mark managed to turn the tide of the match. The 18-15 snooker score was not only the result of Mark Selby’s physical stamina, but also his excellent analysis.

The athlete skillfully read his opponent’s every move, anticipated his decisions and responded with the right defensive strokes. This match demonstrated a key element of Mark’s style: a combination of defensive manoeuvres and unexpected attacks.

2021: back at the top

After a series of relative failures in previous seasons, the 2021 champion returned to the top by beating Sean Murphy 18-15 in the final. This snooker match epitomised Mark Selby’s tactical maturity. The athlete used his signature techniques: a long series of defensive strokes, accurate strokes to balls in difficult positions and control of the pace of play.

Mark Selby’s snooker successes: Masters and UK Championship victories

Winning the Masters in 2008 marked a new era in Mark Selby’s career. It was a tournament in which his tactics shone. In the snooker final against Stephen Lee, Selby built a game full of defensive decisions and precise attacking strokes. The 10-3 victory underlined that his style is not only about defending, but also about his ability to finish a series with spectacular strokes. This success reinforced his status as a tactical genius and player who can dominate major tournaments.

Another milestone in his career was winning the UK Championship title in 2012. This championship is considered one of the most prestigious after the World Cup, and Selby demonstrated his versatility brilliantly. He beat Shaun Murphy in the final and showed absolute tactical superiority. The victory gave Mark Selby the number one position in the rankings and confirmed his dominance in snooker.

Throughout his career, the player has set several records in these tournaments. His ability to hold his concentration during long matches is particularly remarkable. Sessions of more than six hours are part of his playing style.

The secret of Mark Selby’s success: what’s behind the victories?

The victories at the World Snooker Championships are the ultimate proof of Mark Selby’s unique tactics. Each of his four wins (2014, 2016, 2017, 2021) has been based on meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of his opponents’ game. In 2014, with an 18-14 victory over Ronnie O’Sullivan, he showed his ability not only to neutralise attacking players but also to use his style against them.

Selby started each match with a thorough analysis. He concentrated on a strategy to make as few mistakes as possible. Mark analysed not only his technique, but also the psychological state of his opponents, identifying their weaknesses and vulnerabilities. This approach gave him an edge in matches against the strongest players in the world. Methods:

1. Hours of training: daily sessions of up to 8 hours in which difficult strokes and scenarios with different strategies were practised.
2. Analysis of opponents: before each tournament, Selby made a detailed analysis of his opponents’ play, including their style and behaviour in stressful situations.
3. Psychological resilience: working with coaches and psychologists helped him cope with pressure even in the most intense finals.

Conclusion

Mark Selby’s snooker tactics have made his name synonymous with excellence. His approach has shown that intelligence and calculation are as important as technique. His style of play, based on patience, analysis and self-control, has become a model for future generations.