Mark Selby was getting 'choked up' during his victory over John Higgins at the Champion of Champions - before dedicating the result to his late father on the anniversary of his tragic death.
Selby has spoken candidly about the impact that the devastating loss of his father has had on his life. And the date of the encounter with Higgins marked 23 years since dad David passed away with cancer when Selby was only 16.
The 'Jester' let the waves of emotion spur him on rather than hinder his performance in a poignant win over fellow four-time world champion Higgins in Bolton. Selby had earlier beaten world seniors winner Lee Walker, while Higgins overcame Iranian Hossein Vafaei to set up the heavyweight clash.
And a combination of exquisite breaks and granite tactical play ensured his place in the last four of the prestigious event with a 6-4 triumph in an enthralling Monday evening battle.
Selby now has the chance to claim his first victory since his fourth world title at the Crucible last May, and would secure his first ever win in an ITV televised event if he lifts the trophy on Sunday evening.
And Selby revealed after beating Higgins that he had wished the schedule had fallen in his favour and he didn't have to take to the table on such an emotional day.
“I could feel myself getting choked up," he said. "Because I was giving everything out there. I was thinking if I win or lose I’ll leave everything out there. I did it for him today.”
He continued: "Tough day today for me. 23 years to the day when I lost my father. A tough day every day for me this one. When I knew I was going to be in the Champions of Champions, I knew the groups were going to be Monday to Thursday, and I was praying I just was not playing on Monday.
"But as it turns out I was so a tough day for that reason, but I am happy to be in the competition as well. I think about him every day, even though it has been 23 years, it feels like it is yesterday.
"It does not get any easier – you just have to learn to get used to it I suppose. I have coped with it okay at times and other times I have not coped with it as well. He would have wanted me to carry on playing – I am out there trying my hardest. Hopefully, I can make him proud.”
