Welsh Open 2025: Betting Odds and Predictions for the Snooker Tournament
Will a young talent challenge the masters?
The Welsh Open is one of the longest-standing tournaments in professional snooker, having remained a ranking event since its inception in 1992, when Stephen Hendry became its first champion. Unlike other events that have undergone rebranding and format changes, the Welsh Open has maintained its identity and now traditionally concludes the Home Nations series.
Who will win the Welsh Open 2025?
Last year’s champion, Gary Wilson, triumphed over Martin O’Donnell in the final, continuing a trend of surprise winners in recent years. Before Wilson, Robert Milkins, Joe Perry, and Jordan Brown all lifted the trophy in unexpected fashion. Given this recent pattern, another outsider could emerge victorious this year.
Welsh Open 2025 Betting Odds
Bookmakers have placed Kyren Wilson and Ronnie O’Sullivan as the leading contenders. Wilson’s status as the reigning world champion, combined with three tournament victories this season, makes him a justified favourite. However, O’Sullivan’s odds are largely based on reputation rather than recent form. He has endured an inconsistent season, withdrawing from multiple events, including the Championship League, German Masters, and Scottish Open.
There are serious doubts about O’Sullivan’s motivation and readiness for the latter stages in Llandudno. In his quarter of the draw, he faces Jamie Clarke, a player ranked 64th in the seasonal standings who has suffered defeats against lower-ranked opponents. However, Clarke’s tactical style, which disrupts opponents with awkward positional play and frequent safety battles, could frustrate O’Sullivan. If O’Sullivan progresses, he may still struggle against the likes of Ricky Walden, Matthew Selt, Jack Lisowski, Chris Wakelin, or Michael Holt. A prime O’Sullivan would have comfortably handled these names, but his current lack of match sharpness makes him vulnerable. Backing O’Sullivan to win the tournament does not seem advisable.
Welsh Open 2025 Contenders to Take the Title
Instead of O’Sullivan, Mark Williams and Wu Yize stand out as potential winners. Williams, a three-time world champion, faces Florian Nüßle in his opener, followed by a possible clash with Stephen Maguire or Xu Si. Should he advance, Barry Hawkins or Wu Yize could be waiting. Despite a tricky draw, Williams has the experience and form to contend for the title. Wu Yize, meanwhile, has reached the finals of both the Scottish Open and English Open. Given the recent trend of unexpected Welsh Open winners, the young Chinese talent could be next in line to claim a breakthrough ranking title.
Defending champion Gary Wilson is in a competitive section of the draw featuring Neil Robertson and Luca Brecel. Robertson is slowly regaining form, while Brecel, despite a quiet season, remains a dangerous opponent in short-format tournaments. Given his need for ranking points, Brecel could be a dark horse in this tournament.
While Kyren Wilson is having a strong season, Shaun Murphy appears to be the more interesting betting choice. Murphy’s recent Masters victory will have boosted his confidence, and he seems well-placed for another deep tournament run. On the other hand, Mark Selby is not yet at his best, and off-table distractions may still be affecting his performances.
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