Barry Hawkins makes honest Kyren Wilson assessment as snooker star admits 'It's not nice when you keep losing finals'
Barry Hawkins was edged out by Kyren Wilson in the German Masters final, but says the better player won.
Reigning world champion Wilson found himself behind at the end of the afternoon session, before battling back to secure a second title in Berlin 10-9 after an enthralling 19 frames of snooker. It marked the sixth ranking title of the Warrior's career and third this season - whilst world No.12 Hawkins was forced to deal with final heartbreak for the second time this season, after losing in the UK Championship to top seed Judd Trump.
But gutted veteran Hawkins, 12 years Wilson's senior, showed no signs of bitterness after the defeat - heaping praise on his opponent for ruthlessly taking advantage of every opportunity. He said: "I felt like I was just holding on to Kyren all day. I felt like he was playing better than me, he was the stronger player and I was just holding on and holding on. In the end at 9-9 it’s anybody’s game. I've had a great week with a great week and great support. It’s been another good tournament, but it’s onwards and upwards really. It’s a shame we didn’t get the win, but Kyren deserved it.
READ MORE: Barry Hawkins' message to Kyren Wilson after losing German Masters sums him up
"It’s not nice when you keep losing finals, but it’s been a good tournament where I’ve had a bit of luck during the week with the walkover (against Ricky Walden), I’ll keep going, keep punching and see where it goes." Wilson meanwhile believes he's playing as well as ever ahead of the world championships, which get underway in April.
He told WST : "The beauty of it all is that when you've proved to yourself that you can win the biggest event of them all, then it gives you confidence. If you can't use being World Champion as confidence, then what's the point? I'm using it to my advantage. I feel like I'm riding the crest of a wave. I've had a really good season, but there are still a lot of tournaments left so hopefully more silverware is on the horizon."
