LUCA'S BIG BREC

Brilliant Belgian holds his nerve to rule the world

- HECTOR NUNNS

LUCA BRECEL superbly claimed a first world title last night – making a mockery of one of the worst Crucible preparations ever. 

The former child prodigy from Belgium fulfilled a huge talent with an 18-15 victory over four-time champion Mark Selby in a classic Sheffield final.

Brecel, 28, who incredibly had never won a match at the iconic theatre in five previous visits, took everything Selby could throw at him – including a 147 break.

And the maverick ace then hit back in a fascinating clash of styles, putting on a shot-making masterclass that saw him lift the trophy and pocket the £500,000 first prize.