Neil Robertson of Australia is the new Grand Prix champion after he defeated Ding Junhui in the final yesterday in Glasgow. Robertson was able to beat Junhui 9-4 at Kelvin Hall to earn his second Grand Prix crown.

With the win Richardson became the first player outside Britain and Ireland to win four ranking titles. In the quarterfinals of the competition Robertson was up against his friend and practice partner Joe Perry. Robertson beat Perry 5-1 to advance in the competition.

Robertson now is sitting in third in the provisional rankings just behind John Higgins and Ronnie O’Sullivan. Robertson does not see the top spot as that far away and is hoping to be number one soon. He commented: “John is long way ahead but I will keep practicing hard and give it a go. A lot of people say that it’s better to be World Champion, but to be World No. 1 is an unbelievable achievement and proves that you’ve been the most consistent player over two years.”

Robertson went on to say: “I’ve won the Grand Prix twice now, which is our third-biggest ranking event, and I’d like to win one of the UK, Masters and World Championship to put myself up there as a top player.”





- 2009-10-16