Gilbert capped a remarkable career resurgence as he wrapped up a 13-8 win over Maguire to seal a place in the semi-finals for the first time since 2019. Gilbert had seen a 9-2 advantage tugged back to 10-6 overnight but withstood the Scot’s valiant comeback to set up a last-four clash with either Kyren Wilson or John Higgins. It has also been a strong tournament for Maguire, who was involved in a bizarre moment during the match when he appeared to spot an insect on the table before popping it in his mouth. Featuring interviews with current players, legends of the baize, pundits, TV presenters, World Snooker Tour management and other characters from behind the scenes, it really is the perfect addition to this year’s World Championship.
The 43-year-old was quizzed about it by reporter Phil Haigh after the match, to which he replied: “It was just a fly. I spat it out when nobody was looking.” At least one person saw though, with a fan at the Crucible replying on X: “I can confirm from seat C26 there was a definite spittage moment witnessed.” He admitted he had no expectations of success and admitted, after a season with a solitary ranking quarter-final appearance to his name, he had entered the qualifiers with few expectations. “It was pretty much an impossible thought not long ago, and I think it’s a massive achievement,” said the Tamworth cueman.
“We’re only talking five weeks ago that I sat and said, ‘can I be bothered to play the quals? I’ll just turn up to take the £10k and that’ll be that’. “I’ve tried to destroy my career as much as possible, I was in self-destruct mode basically. It’s an incredible turnaround and I’ve got a lot of confidence, probably more than I’ve ever had.
I’m motivated to prove to myself that I can go out and play.”
*Who has been your player of the tournament so far?
