China's Ding Junhui has become the most successful Asian player in professional snooker history. Ding claimed that title with a 10-8 win over reigning world champion John Higgins in the UK Championship final on Monday.

 

The match which was a close contest right from the beginning, was all square at 7-7 before Ding opened up a two frame lead at 9-7.

Higgins though, would respond to cut Ding's lead to 9-8.

But then Higgins who beat Ronnie O'Sullivan in a thrilling semi-final, missed a red and left it over the pocket to give Ding a chance.

Ding responded with a break of 75 and although Higgins played on in search of the points he needed, Ding potted a long red to set the seal on a fine victory.

The victory gave Ding, the 2005 UK champion, his fourth ranking event title. He has now improved his world ranking to 6th place.