Stuart Bingham produced an extraordinary moment in snooker history at the UK Championship when he potted the black ball directly from his break-off shot during a crucial frame against Mark Williams.
The unprecedented incident, described as ‘never before seen’ by commentators, occurred during the 10th frame of their first-round match in York.
Despite this unusual setback, Bingham went on to complete a remarkable comeback victory against the three-time world champion.
Trailing 4-1 early in the match, Bingham found himself in a difficult position against the in-form Williams.
The deficit extended to 5-2, with Williams appearing certain to progress in the tournament.
However, Bingham mounted an impressive fightback, winning four consecutive frames to secure victory.
Stuart Bingham potted the black on his break-off
EUROSPORT/PA
The black ball incident came at a crucial moment in the 10th frame, when Bingham’s break-off shot cannoned off the cushion and unexpectedly sent the black into the corner pocket.
The incident left commentators and fans stunned, with Eurosport’s Alan McManus declaring: “You think you’ve seen it all. I’ve never seen that before, ever. Potting the black off the break. That is incredible.”
Former professional Neal Foulds echoed the sentiment, stating: “Don’t think I’ve ever seen the black knocked in from the break off before tonight.”
Beyond the unusual black ball incident, concerns were raised about the table conditions during the tournament.
Bingham attributed some playing issues to specific chalk usage, stating: “I put it down to the two players in the tournament using Triangle [chalk], and they’re out now.”
Ronnie O’Sullivan is one of just a few snooker players still using the traditional Triangle chalk brand while most others have been converted over to Taom.
Stuart Bingham pulled off an impressive comeback
PA
But Bingham expressed optimism about future matches in the event with changes being made to the green baize.
He added: “With it being reclothed now, I think we’ll be in for a scoring fest from the last 16.”
The same table had previously drawn complaints during the match between Judd Trump and Neil Robertson.
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Following his dramatic victory, Bingham will next face Zhang Anda in the tournament.
Zhang has already made his mark in York, having achieved a maximum 147 break during his 6-3 first-round victory over fellow Chinese player Lei Peifan.
Bingham has reached the semi-finals of the UK Championships three times in his career while Zhang’s best run came last year when he reached the last eight.
Mark Williams was in a strong position to beat Stuart Bingham
PA