The 2023 European Masters final between Judd Trump and Barry Hawkins delivered everything snooker fans hoped for — high-quality break-building, tactical battles, emotional swings, and a reminder of why both players remain among the elite of the sport.

Held at the Kia Metropol Arena in Fürth, Germany, the final was the climax of a week packed with drama and standout performances. Judd Trump arrived with confidence and momentum, while Barry Hawkins carried the hunger of a veteran still chasing silverware on the big stage.

This in-depth review covers every aspect of the 2023 European Masters final, from pre-match build-up to frame-by-frame analysis, key statistics, tactical insights, and what the result meant for both players moving forward.

Tournament Overview: The European Masters 2023

The European Masters is one of snooker’s most prestigious ranking events outside the Triple Crown. Known for its fast tables and strong international crowds, the tournament often produces attacking snooker and dramatic finishes.

Key Facts:

  • Event: European Masters 2023

  • Location: Fürth, Germany

  • Format: Ranking event

  • Final: Best of 17 frames

  • Prize Money (Winner): £80,000

The tournament attracted a world-class field, making the final between Judd Trump and Barry Hawkins a fitting conclusion.

Road to the Final

Judd Trump’s Path

Judd Trump entered the tournament with renewed confidence after mixed results earlier in the season. His run to the final showcased a blend of flair and maturity.

  • Defeated several top-32 opponents

  • Multiple century breaks during the week

  • Improved safety play compared to previous events

Trump’s semi-final performance, in particular, stood out as he dismantled his opponent with ruthless long potting and sharp break-building.

Barry Hawkins’ Journey

Barry Hawkins’ route to the final was arguably tougher. Known for his granite-like temperament and tactical nous, Hawkins had to grind through several close matches.

  • Won multiple deciding-frame matches

  • Showed exceptional composure under pressure

  • Combined solid safety with clinical finishing

By the time he reached the final, Hawkins had already proven he could handle pressure situations — something that would become crucial.

Head-to-Head Context Before the Final

Before the 2023 European Masters final, Judd Trump held the edge in head-to-head meetings, particularly in finals. However, Barry Hawkins had a history of pushing Trump to the limit in longer matches.

Playing Styles Compared

Player Style Strengths
Judd Trump Attacking Long potting, big breaks
Barry Hawkins Tactical Safety play, match control

The contrast in styles set the stage for a fascinating final.

Match Format and Conditions

  • Best of 17 frames

  • Two sessions: afternoon and evening

  • Fast cloth and responsive cushions

  • Neutral venue with strong crowd support for both players

These conditions generally favor attacking players, but they also punish careless positional errors — a balance that shaped the match.

Frame-by-Frame Breakdown

Frames 1–4: Fast Start from Trump

Judd Trump began the final with intent. From the opening break-off, he looked sharp and focused.

  • Frame 1: Trump opened with a 92 break

  • Frame 2: Hawkins responded with a solid 68

  • Frame 3: Trump dominated with a century

  • Frame 4: Tight tactical frame, Trump edged it

Score after 4 frames: Trump 3–1 Hawkins

Trump’s cue ball control was exceptional early on, forcing Hawkins to spend more time playing safety than he would have liked.

Frames 5–8: Hawkins Finds His Rhythm

Barry Hawkins gradually settled into the match, slowing the tempo and dragging Trump into longer exchanges.

  • Frame 5: Hawkins won after a safety battle

  • Frame 6: Another scrappy frame, Hawkins held nerve

  • Frame 7: Trump responded with a fluent 85

  • Frame 8: Hawkins cleared up clinically

Mid-session score: 4–4

This phase highlighted Hawkins’ experience. He refused to panic and trusted his game.

Tactical Battle: Where the Match Was Won and Lost

One of the defining aspects of the 2023 European Masters final was the tactical duel.

Key Tactical Themes:

  • Hawkins targeting Trump’s safety returns

  • Trump attacking from distance to avoid scrappy frames

  • Heavy use of baulk colors to regain control

Hawkins’ patience contrasted sharply with Trump’s natural aggression, creating momentum swings throughout the match.

Frames 9–12: Trump Shifts Gear

After the interval, Judd Trump raised his level noticeably.

  • Frame 9: Trump century break

  • Frame 10: Hawkins missed a key red, Trump punished

  • Frame 11: One-visit frame from Trump

  • Frame 12: Hawkins stopped the run with a 70+

Score: Trump 7–5 Hawkins

This was arguably the decisive period of the match, as Trump capitalized on small mistakes.

Pressure Moments That Defined the Final

Several moments stood out as turning points:

  1. Frame 10 missed red by Hawkins

    • Opened the door for Trump to extend his lead

  2. Long red in Frame 11 by Trump

    • Shifted momentum decisively

  3. Safety exchange in Frame 13

    • Trump forced a crucial error

At this level, margins are thin — and Trump was sharper when it mattered most.

Frames 13–15: The Finish Line Approaches

Barry Hawkins showed resilience, but Trump sensed the opportunity.

  • Frame 13: Trump edged a long tactical frame

  • Frame 14: Hawkins responded with a break

  • Frame 15: Trump sealed the match with authority

Final Score: Judd Trump 9–6 Barry Hawkins

Match Statistics

Statistic Judd Trump Barry Hawkins
Frames Won 9 6
Century Breaks 2 0
50+ Breaks 6 4
Long Pot Success Higher Moderate
Safety Success Good Excellent

The stats reflect what the eye test showed — Trump’s scoring power made the difference.

Why Judd Trump Won the 2023 European Masters Final

Several factors contributed to Trump’s victory:

  • Superior long pot success

  • Better conversion from half-chances

  • Improved tactical discipline

  • Calm decision-making in key frames

This performance marked a return to peak form for Trump, silencing doubts about his consistency.

Barry Hawkins: A Finalist to Be Proud Of

Despite defeat, Barry Hawkins’ performance deserved praise.

  • Excellent composure throughout the tournament

  • Strong safety play against elite opposition

  • Continued relevance at the top level

Hawkins proved once again that he remains a serious contender in ranking events.

What the Result Meant for the Rankings

The 2023 European Masters final had significant ranking implications:

  • Trump gained crucial ranking points

  • Boosted confidence heading into the season

  • Hawkins reinforced his top-16 position

For Trump, the win helped stabilize his season and reassert his status among snooker’s elite.

Fan Reaction and Media Coverage

Fans praised the quality of the final, particularly:

  • Trump’s attacking brilliance

  • Hawkins’ sportsmanship

  • The balance between flair and tactics

Media outlets highlighted the match as one of the standout finals of the season.

Legacy of the 2023 European Masters Final

This final will be remembered for:

  • High-quality snooker

  • Classic clash of styles

  • A reminder of Judd Trump’s brilliance under pressure

It also reinforced the European Masters’ reputation as a premier ranking event.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Who won the 2023 European Masters final?

Judd Trump defeated Barry Hawkins 9–6.

Where was the final played?

At the Kia Metropol Arena in Fürth, Germany.

Was the match a ranking final?

Yes, the European Masters is a ranking event.

How many frames did Judd Trump win?

Trump won 9 frames.