SHEFFIELD, May 2 -- John Higgins from Scotland defeated England rising star Judd Trump 18-15 to clinch his fourth title at the Snooker World Championship on Monday.
The 35-year-old world No. 1 Higgins trailed behind 10-7 after the first two sessions on Sunday, but managed to overcome the 21-year-old qualifier Trump and lifted his fourth career world trophy.
"It's just an unbelievable feeling to beat Judd like that," said Higgins who burst into tears after the victory. "I was frightened to death to even play safe as I knew Judd would knock a long pot in and he has been incredible."
Trump kept sharp in the final at Crucible Theatre just as he did in his sensational wins over defending world champion Neil Robertson, former world champion GraemeDott as well as Chinese talent Ding Junhui.
However, the gifted rising star missed a difficult blue which could have put him 13-9 up. Three-time champion Higgins showed his experience by nicking that frame and adding the next three, taking over the lead 13-12 after the third session.
In the final session, Trump pulled two back to make 14 all, but conceded to the seasoned Higgins with some mistakes in the last couple of frames.
"I have tried my best and it just wasn't enough this time," said Trump. "but I will come back next year."
Meanwhile, Higgins has targeted Stephen Hendry's World Championship record of seven titles.
"I've won it in three of the last five seasons and have dedicated myself so I just want to keep on winning it as it's an incredible feeling. I don't see any reason why I can't do it and I have another five years to try and win it three times," said Higgins.