Having eliminated Anthony Hamilton, Iulian Boiko, one of the swiftest players at the BetVictor Shoot Out, has advanced to the last 16 and is optimistic about his prospects heading into the final night of the world ranking event in Swansea.
The last 16 draw includes Ukraine’s finest player, 18-year-old Boiko, who turned pro at the tender age of 14 in 2020 but dropped off the tour in 2022 and is now competing as an amateur. The competition is perfect for his fast-paced style, and the teenager is a genuine contender for the top prize of £50,000.
Boiko stated, “I’m really enjoying it; the atmosphere is so fantastic, and the crowd is lively.” Boiko narrowly defeated Hamilton 31-26 in a closely contested match. “Every day it gets more electric. With my rhythm and style, I don’t even think of the clock most of the time; I just play my natural game. But my safety has also been good and won me a few matches. I have never been four frames away from winning a ranking event before! I’m really looking forward to this evening, anything is possible. I felt in good shape coming into this event, and hopefully, some exciting results are waiting.”
Boiko will now face Shoot Out specialist Dominic Dale, who won this event in 2014 and advanced to round four by defeating Zhou Yuelong with a break of 61.
In addition to Boiko, two other amateurs remain in the competition, including Welsh 17-year-old Liam Davies, who defeated Dylan Emery. From 12-33 behind, Davies remained composed and produced a late break of 28. Steven Hallworth eliminated Alexander Ursenbacher.
