The Benson & Hedges Masters is a very prestigious invitational event. It began
already in 1975. This means that only the World Championship is older.
Throughout the years there have been some very exciting finals. The very first one, between Ray
Reardon and John Spencer was decided on a re-spotted black in the final frame. The same thing
happened in 1998 when Mark J Williams beat
Stephen Hendry.
Stephen Hendry has staged the most impressive comeback.
In 1991 he was 0-7 and 2-8 down against Mike Hallett, but he eventually won 9-8. Dennis Taylor has also
come from behind. He beat Alex Higgins 9-8 in 1987 after having been 5-8 down.
In 2001 Paul Hunter was trailing Fergal O'Brien 7-3 before he made four centuries in six frames and eventually won 10-9. The following year he was 5-0 behind before beating Mark J Williams with the same score. In 2004 he was 7-2 behind Ronnie O'Sullivan before eventually prevailing 10-9. Also this time he had five tons!
Stephen Hendry has six wins in the event. That's more
than anyone else. The organizers even gave him the old trophy in 1993 after his fifth consecutive
win.
