Ding 'can win world title'

Ding won the fourth ranking event of his career in Telford by beating current world champion Higgins 10-8 in the final but it was the Chinese sensation's first title win in over three years after a mixed couple of seasons.

"It's good to see Ding back, it was only a matter of time because he's that good a player," said Higgins.

"I'm sure he will win the world title, he's got the game for it and wins like this one will help him. I'd be flabbergasted if he finishes his career without winning it."

Ding also admitted that his confidence has improved and he is now in a better position than ever to become the first non-British or Irish player to win at the Crucible since Canada's Cliff Thorburn in 1980.

"I know how to win and I've got more experience now against the top players," he said.

"I've had a long time without winning so I'm so happy, it's crazy. I've been working very hard this season, practising six or seven hours a day with no breaks. After my first match here, I had confidence and felt I could play better.

"There was a lot of pressure at the end of last season because I nearly dropped out of the top 16, so I'm surprised to play well in the first three tournaments this season.

"I am still sometimes missing easy balls and my head is not good, so I must learn to control myself."