January 16th 2025.
Shaun Murphy is back in his element, feeling the magic coursing through his veins once again. He credits this newfound confidence to his partnership with former world champion Peter Ebdon, who has been instrumental in helping him reclaim his self-belief. As a result, Murphy has been on fire at the Masters, securing a spot in the semi-finals after an impressive performance against Neil Robertson at Alexandra Palace.
In fact, Murphy's game has been nothing short of exceptional. In the eighth frame of his match against Robertson, he potted an impressive 15 reds and blacks before being foiled by a snooker on the yellow. This near-perfect display comes on the heels of a strong showing in his opening round against Gary Wilson, proving that Murphy's chances of claiming a second Masters title are very much alive.
Murphy and Ebdon have been working together this season, and according to Murphy, their partnership has been a game-changer. "I've been really delighted with the partnership with Peter," he shared with the BBC after his victory over Robertson. "It's a lovely circle of life that Peter and I are now working together. After watching him make his debut in the Worlds in 1992, it's a nice story."
But more than just a heartwarming reunion, Murphy attributes his renewed belief in himself to Ebdon's influence. "The one thing he's given me, helped me find, is that belief that I can do this," Murphy explained. "It's easy to let those negative thoughts creep in when you've had a few bad results or haven't been lifting trophies. Peter, being the most positive person in his career, has really helped me rediscover my belief."
When asked if his lack of belief was the reason for seeking Ebdon's help, Murphy clarified that it wasn't the sole reason. "I just wanted to have somebody in my corner who has been out there and had a fight too," he shared. "I've had lots of coaches and advisors, but at different times of your life, you need different advice from different people. Right now, I wanted someone who has been out there and had a tear-up themselves."
In the dressing room before his match, Murphy and Ebdon weren't even discussing tactics. Instead, they were simply vibing to some music, a guitar riff that seemed to set the tone for their harmonious partnership. "To have somebody who has walked out there before, who knows when it's the right time to say nothing or the right time to say something, is invaluable," Murphy said on Eurosport.
Ebdon may have been known for his intense, grinding style of play during his prime, which led him to nine ranking titles, including a World Championship. But to Murphy, he is more than just a fellow snooker player. "I think we're all guilty of judging people we watch on TV and thinking we know them when we don't," he said. "If you met Peter, you'll know he's one of the kindest, well-read, highly educated people you could meet. And if he was guilty of anything in his career, it was giving 100 percent every day. That doesn't make him a bad bloke to me."
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