Mark Williams reaches 71st career ranking semi-final

Mark Williams and Jack Jones have secured the final spots in the semi-finals of the 2026 Northern Ireland Open in Belfast. The two Welsh players joined Cairn Wilson and Sam Craigie for the Saturday matches at Waterfront Hall.

Three-time world champion Mark Williams staged a significant comeback against David Gilbert, winning 6-4. Despite trailing 3-1 and later 4-2, the 51-year-old veteran delivered three consecutive century breaks of 104, 115, and 101 points to take the lead.

Williams, who previously won the tournament in 2017, is pursuing further historical milestones. A victory this week would secure him the Alex Higgins trophy, an invitation to the Champion of Champions tournament, and the top spot in the Home Nations Series seasonal rankings.