Jack Lisowski breaks down in tears over Northern Ireland Open win before Judd Trump remark

Jack Lisowski broke down in tears as he won the Northern Ireland Open, before dubbing Judd Trump as "the closest thing I'm ever going to have to a brother." It was a tight battle at Waterfront Hall on Sunday evening, as Lisowski battled it out with the World No1 for his first ever ranking title.

The game ran down to the wire as the pairing headed into the 17th and final frame all-square at 8-8, before Lisowski finally toppled his long-time friend and snooker rival to win the tournament. During the final shots of the match, Lisowski began wiping the tears from his eyes, pushing the lead out of reach that little bit further with every pot. And with the game done and dusted, he immediately headed over to Trump to share a warm embrace, as the 36-year-old congratulated him on his hard-earned win.

Speaking after his win, Lisowski took very little time to give Trump his flowers for his actions both on and off the baize, giving thanks for their tight-knit friendship. He said: "You've been a better friend than I could have ever asked for over the past eight months.

"He's obviously one of the greatest snooker players of all time already, but he's been the best friend I ever could have wished for. You're the closest thing I'm ever going to have to a brother and I love you."

Meanwhile, Trump also shared his appreciation towards Lisowski, remaining humble after suffering defeat to his close friend. He said: "Yeah, it was a good game. I think there was obviously a bit of tension.

"It was a different scenario then the rest of the finals we've played in - there was obviously a lot more on the line. But I'm so pleased for Jack.

"I'll never take it for granted winning in the final, but I'm probably a lot happier than if I would have won, to be honest. I gave it my absolute all.

"It wasn't to be. I missed a few shots, a few things here and there. Jack fully deserved the win and there's no person happier for him than me."

He added: "I said it to him, it's so nice that he can just shut everyone up - because it annoys me. No-one can say that again. The first title is also special - what he's been through his whole life really, not just this last eight months.

"He's got an amazing fasmily and friends around him, they've been so supportive. I'm glad to be a friend."

Despite being a fan favourite on the World Snooker Tour for what feels like an eternity, the Northern Ireland Open comes as Lisowski's first ranking title - having made seven finals in total over the course of his career. Trump, meanwhile continues a lengthy wait for a title of his own, his last coming in December 2024.