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Stephen Hendry felt compelled to message old rival Steve Davis after being left stunned by what Kyren Wilson did at the end of the Masters final. The 2024 world champion secured his second Triple Crown triumph with a 10-6 victory over John Higgins at Alexandra Palace on Sunday.

The decisive frame was a nerve-wracking affair, yet Wilson somehow found time for comedic relief amid the tension. After potting a challenging red to the middle pocket, Wilson quickly realised he was out of position and theatrically pretended to chomp on his cue in frustration.

As he pondered his next move, a spectator called out: "Come on, Kyren." Wilson shot back: "I'm trying!" to laughter and cheers from the 2,000-strong audience. He then added: "I hate this game sometimes!"

Wilson eventually played safe before a mistake from Higgins allowed him back to the table to seal victory. Hendry, who was providing BBC commentary for the showpiece, couldn't believe Wilson's light-hearted approach at such a pivotal moment.

Speaking on the WST's Snooker Club podcast, the six-time Masters winner said: "I couldn't believe that. In that situation, nearly winning the match and he can think of funny things to say.

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"I messaged Steve, who was in the studio. I said, 'Can you believe what he was doing?' We'd never do that."

Hendry continued: "He definitely loves the occasion. He's a big occasion player, he's the real deal. He's a big contender for the World Championship this year."

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Wilson's triumph marks a dramatic turnaround from his previous Triple Crown outing at the UK Championship late last year, where he confessed to being on the brink of a "mental breakdown" during his opening-round loss to Elliot Slessor.

The 34-year-old had been battling with unfamiliar equipment after his regular cue sustained damage during standard maintenance work.

Now equipped with a cue he trusts, he appears poised for a successful remainder of the campaign, which reaches its climax at the World Championship.

Reflecting on his Masters victory, he said: "I thought at the UK [Championship], 'I'm gone.' I honestly didn't know if I was ever going to be back in the winner's enclosure.

"I came here with a new lease of life. I've got such a supportive family and I promised my mum she was going to have that bit of crystal [winner's trophy] on her dining room table. It's coming home, mum!"