Building Momentum and Confidence

Jak Jones, the Welsh snooker talent, is no stranger to defying expectations. His remarkable journey to the 2024 World Snooker Championship final as a qualifier not only showcased his skill but also solidified his belief in his ability to compete at the highest level. Now, with the Welsh Open on the horizon, Jones is focused on continuing his ascent in the sport.

The Crucible Run: A Turning Point

Jones’ journey to the World Championship final was nothing short of a fairytale. Overcoming giants like Stuart Bingham, Zhang Anda, and Judd Trump, he proved his mettle on the sport’s biggest stage. Although he fell short in the final against Kyren Wilson, his performance earned him a place in the world’s top 16 and a substantial £200,000 prize. However, Jones remains grounded, using the experience to fuel his ambition rather than his lifestyle.

"It probably sounds crazy, but I feel more confident winning the World Championship than any tournament on the tour," Jones admits. "The longer formats suit me perfectly. Last year’s run gave me the belief that I belong at the top."

Welsh Open: A Homecoming Challenge

The Welsh Open, held in Llandudno from February 10-16, 2025, presents an opportunity for Jones to shine on home soil. With ranking points and pride at stake, the tournament is a crucial stepping stone towards the World Championship. Jones, who faces compatriot Matthew Stevens in his opening match, is determined to make history as the first Welshman to win the event since Mark Williams in 1999.

"I feel like I could win any tournament I go into now," Jones says. "Being on the big stage doesn’t affect me anymore. I’ve got the confidence and belief that I lacked in the past."

The Changing Landscape of Snooker

Jones acknowledges the shifting dynamics in snooker, where the dominance of established names is no longer assured. "The game is changing," he observes. "There are players further down the rankings who can perform at an extremely high level. Anyone can beat anyone on their day."

This unpredictability was evident in last year’s Welsh Open, where Gary Wilson triumphed as an outsider. With Ronnie O’Sullivan, Shaun Murphy, and Kyren Wilson among the favorites, the 2025 edition promises to be fiercely contested.

Looking Ahead

For Jones, the focus remains on continuous improvement and consistency. With a baby on the way, he’s also motivated to secure his family’s future. "The money from last year’s run has helped, but it’s not about splurging," he explains. "It’s about setting myself up for the long term."

As the countdown to the World Championship continues, Jones is determined to prove that his Crucible run was no fluke. "Maybe I’m saving it all for the World Championship," he says with a smile. "A one-tournament wonder, perhaps?"

Watch the Action

Don’t miss the Welsh Open, live on BBC iPlayer, BBC Two Wales, the Red Button, and the BBC Sport website.