Mark Williams offers timely warning to new world snooker champion Luca Brecel – ‘I took my foot off the gas’

Mark Williams believes Luca Brecel must learn to motivate himself as world champion this season if he wants to remain in the hunt for the game’s top prizes.

But he also feels ‘The Belgian Bullet’ will be a major scalp for the rest of the World Snooker Tour after his stunning exploits in Sheffield saw Brecel become the first winner of the blue-chip tournament from continental Europe.

“I am only 28, with so much time left in my career. Hopefully, there are many more to follow.”

Williams feels a desire to improve is pivotal after admitting he lost focus in claiming the trophy for the first time with an 18-16 victory over fellow Welshman Matthew Stevens 23 years ago.

He defeated Ken Doherty (18-16) and John Higgins (18-16) for his other two world titles.

“Everyone wants to be world champion. He’s the one who has done it and is now driving around in a Ferrari! Good luck to him, he has earned it.

“After I first won it, I definitely took my foot off the gas, because it is hard to keep motivating yourself to work hard.”

A Chinese player has yet to conquer the Crucible, but Williams feels Brecel’s glorious victory for Belglum will boost the growth of the sport in new markets.

“Our chances of getting more tournaments in Europe now have to be good. And people love to see attacking, fast players so he will bring new fans into the sport.”

Championship League latest group winners

• Group 3: Ashley Carty (Eng)
• Group 30: Daniel Wells (Wal)
• Group 11: Martin O’Donnell (Eng)
• Group 21: Chris Wakelin (Eng)
• Group 10: Michael White (Wal)
• Group 22: Robbie Williams (Eng)
• Group 5: Kyren Wilson (Eng)
• Group 29: Thepchaiya Un-Nooh (Tha)
• Group 6: Mark Williams (Wal)
• Group 27: Barry Pinches (Eng)

Championship League Stage 1

• June 26-30
• July 3-8
• July 10-14

Championship League Stage 2

Championship Stage 3

– – –