The former world number one and two-time world champion Williams is one of the greats, a real favourite with the fans and he's made a welcomed return to the winner's circle.He beat Mark Selby 4-3 in the Rotterdam Open final yesterday with a touch of class: taking the game to his opponent and really going for his shots. This attacking flair is exactly how he masterminded his years of huge success over the past decade and more.
He didn't let Selby dictate and took home the trophy as a reward. This is his first win since the German Masters back in 2011, where he also beat Selby.
People are quick to cosign the old boys to history after a few defeats or difficult spells, but Williams has bounced back here and has proved he is still very much capable of taking home silverware. Now ranked out side of the top 16, he has some work to do to force his way back into the Masters line-up but a dose of that winning feeling may just spur him on.
Williams is by how own admission not a massive fan of the PTC events, but events like this one here in Europe have the feel of a 'proper' event. This ultimately helps the bigger players who have more experience playing in front of the crowds.
Mark is at the stage of his career where the pressure should be off. He's been there and done it. Maybe by adopting an attitude of just turning up to play and seeing what happens could play to his advantage this season as he looks to get back into the top 16.
This isn't a big win in comparison with the achievements looking back at his career, but it feels poignant.
The thought of seeing Williams getting back to playing anywhere near his very best is exciting. Let's see what the Welshman has up his sleeve for the rest of the campaign.
