only just got back from Berlin and that was my first ever live ranking event
haven't seen all the views on the tournament yet, I just want to say as a spectator the tournament has been a great success
I didn't expect such huge support from the local fans after seeing all those half-empty arenas in Britain
but it was very well attended, there were lots of people even for morning sessions
the venue was simply awesome, all five tables could be seen from anywere in the audience (not quite sure though about how it looked and sounded on tv, every part of the audience seemed to be supporting the match nearest to them, so some of the great shots on the main table might have gone unnoticed as it was a bit further)
the tournament was very well organised, after-match interviews, authograph sessions, no strict rules for people entering the arena during frames, the atmosphere was relaxed which helped players to rise their games and people to really enjoy it all
on the matches, all in all I think it was really good quality, especially from quarters onwards (having four centuries in a row was unbelievable
) I missed Fu-Williams semi cause I was glued to the other match
a real battle of two tough match players that was, the atmosphere was tense, I can't even think about anyone possibly falling asleep during this match (or any other) everyone in the audience seemed to be involved in the matches
the final itself deserves a special mention. Mark Williams in great form and quite relaxed, Mark Selby a bit nervous and obviously trying his hardest
but Williams was just sublime
the best man won it deservedly. And as I've started to doubt Selby lately, now after the tournament I can say I saw some really good matches he played (including against Hendry and Ding), I saw the desire to win also from him last week and I believe he will start winning tournaments soon
All in all, fantastic tournament and a great success. I'm sure it'll be back next year and so will I
ps seen Monique too
wanted to come up and say hello but didn't have much of a chance (big thanks to her for again great pictures!)