Iulian Boiko Wins European Under-21 Snooker Championship

Iulian Boiko triumphed over Oliver Sykes 5-4 in the European Under-21 Snooker Championship final in Antalya, Türkiye, securing a two-year World Snooker Tour (WST) card starting in the 2025/26 season.

The 19-year-old Ukrainian, once the youngest professional at 14, bounced back from a near miss in the WPBSA Q Tour Play-Offs. He dominated the group stage and eliminated Maksim Kostov, Arsenii Korolev, and Mykhailo Larkov to reach the final.

Leading 3-1, Boiko faced a strong comeback from Sykes, but he held his nerve in a tense decider to claim the prestigious title and rejoin the professional circuit.

Nuessle, Hallworth, and Highfield Earn World Snooker Tour Cards

Florian Nuessle, Steven Hallworth, and Liam Highfield secured two-year World Snooker Tour (WST) cards after excelling in the WPBSA Q Tour Global Play-Offs in Antalya, Türkiye.

Nuessle Makes Austrian Snooker History
Florian Nuessle became Austria’s first professional snooker player after a dominant 10-3 win over Estonia’s Andres Petrov. The 23-year-old, who had suffered multiple near-misses in recent years, controlled the match with breaks of 54, 86, and 80 before sealing victory with a stunning 108 clearance. An emotional Nuessle expressed relief and pride, hoping to elevate Austrian snooker and make a lasting impact on the tour.

Hallworth’s Emotional Comeback
Steven Hallworth defeated Mark Joyce 10-5 to regain his professional status after three years. The 29-year-old took early control, leading 6-3 with a 113 break, before holding his nerve in a tense second session. Overcome with emotion post-match, Hallworth admitted the struggle of the amateur circuit and credited his recent honeymoon for renewed focus. Now back on tour, he aims to build consistency and fulfill his long-term ambitions.

Highfield Returns in Style
Liam Highfield stormed past Iulian Boiko 10-3 to reclaim his WST spot after a one-year absence. The 34-year-old showcased his scoring ability, notching five half-century breaks en route to a commanding 7-2 lead. Highfield, who previously spent 14 years on tour, acknowledged past struggles with consistency but now sees this as the start of a new chapter. Looking ahead, he hopes to contend for titles and make a stronger impact in his second stint as a professional.

Upcoming Snooker Tournaments

• Players Championship 18th - 22nd March