This is why we love sport.
In Stuart Bingham’s previous eight appearances at the Crucible, but after a career renaissance, the 38-year-old won an emotional world title this evening, beating Shaun Murphy 18-15 at the Crucible.
After sensational victories against the tournament favourites Ronnie O’Sullivan and Judd Trump in the quarter and semi finals, Bingham spent the opening sessions of the final chasing Shaun Murphy, before a blistering third session saw him 15-12 ahead, before Murphy came back to draw level.
After slogging out two tense frames, Bingham found himself on the hill, and a stunning break of 88 took him over the line to become world champion for the first time, and the third oldest champion in Crucible history.
Bingham was clearly emotional after winning snooker’s biggest prize, and the world number 10 was an extremely popular winner.
As the BBC’s Hazel Irvine said, “Nice guys do always win”.
World Champion @Stuart__Bingham pic.twitter.com/IVNhEW8ELA
— Scott Robinson (@Scottlarock5) May 4, 2015
I take my hat off to @Stuart__Bingham played brilliant
— MARK WILLIAMS M.B.E (@markwil147) May 4, 2015
Great performance here,well done @Stuart__Bingham ,champion of the world
— Ken Doherty Official (@kendoherty1997) May 4, 2015
Massive well done to @Stuart__Bingham great performance under the most intense pressure. Deserved world champion. Enjoy!!
— Mark Allen (@pistol147) May 4, 2015
CHAMPION: Enormous reception here at the Crucible for @Stuart__Bingham! #ilovesnooker @Betfred pic.twitter.com/5N90zvYcNa
— WST (@WeAreWST) May 4, 2015
Sport!!! F…ing Love It
— Alan Cawley (@alancaw) May 4, 2015
After twenty years of trying, Stuart Bingham is an inspiration to us all to never give up on your dreams!!! #SnookerWorldChamps
— Craig Gazey (@craigazey) May 4, 2015