Wattana hits jackpot in HK

HONG KONG: Former Asian champion James Wattana of Thailand won his first tournament in nearly eight years when he defeated Ken Doherty of Ireland in the final of the Euro-Asia Snooker Masters Challenge here yesterday. 

Wattana scored a 6-4 win over world number six Doherty to pocket US$47,000. 

“I didn't expect to be in the final. It has been a long time, almost eight years since I last won a tournament. I have forgotten what it feels like to win. It is a great feeling,” said the ecstatic Wattana. 

Wattana, once ranked as high as number three in the world, has slipped in the rankings over the past few years and is presently placed at 34 on the professional list. – AFP