Lisowski Secures Home Nations Series Bonus After Welsh Open Victory

Jack Lisowski clinched the £150,000 Home Nations Series bonus at the BetVictor Welsh Open on Saturday, March 1, 2026, after a dramatic semi-final victory over John Higgins. The win came at the expense of Mark Allen, who had been in a strong position to claim the bonus.

Allen’s Disappointment and Lisowski’s Comeback

Mark Allen was gracious in defeat, acknowledging Lisowski’s impressive performance. He expressed his frustration on social media, joking that he “cried himself to sleep” after missing out on the prize for the fourth time in six years.^Mirror

Lisowski secured his place in the final with a 78 break in the deciding frame against John Higgins.^SnookerHQ He had trailed Higgins 3-1 before mounting a comeback to lead 4-3 and 5-4, ultimately holding his nerve under pressure.

The Road to the Bonus

Allen had led the Home Nations Series standings from the start, winning the English Open in September. He followed this with semi-final appearances at the Northern Ireland and Scottish Opens. However, a first-round defeat to David Grace at the Welsh Open opened the door for his rivals.^SnookerHQ

Lisowski was one of only four players who could have overtaken Allen in the rankings, and he seized the opportunity.^SnookerHQ

Lisowski’s Winning Mentality

After securing his spot in the final, Lisowski spoke about his mindset during the crucial break. “I was thinking just pot, don’t stop potting until you hear them clapping,” he said.^Mirror He also acknowledged a shift in his approach, stating he had been “playing the occasion” and needed to “get out there and open the balls.”

Welsh Open Final

Lisowski will now face Barry Hawkins in the final of the Welsh Open on Sunday, March 2, 2026.^SnookerHQ