Un-Nooh: Missing black for 147 and £44,000 a 'nightmare'

The Thai player was facing Australian Neil Robertson in the third round when he set up the opportunity on the relatively straight forward shot, having pulled off some remarkable pots on the way.

But the world No 36 missed the pot to the amazement of the crowd and the other players watching from other tables. He would have picked up a £40,000 rolling prize for a maximum and £4,000 for the highest break had the feat not been equalled.

"I’m so disappointed. It’s a nightmare, " said Un-Nooh. "There was a lot of pressure on the black because I had never made a 147 in a tournament before.”

To make matters worse, Robertson then scored 145 in the next frame before winning the match 6-2.

"I’m gutted for him. The money would have meant a lot to him, it would have covered his expenses for the next two years," said Robertson.

"In terms of raw talent he’s as good as anyone on the circuit. I enjoy watching him and he reminds me of Tony Drago because he can pot anything or miss anything. I haven’t set the world alight in my three matches so far, but hopefully I’m building as the tournament goes on.”