Ben Mertens, still only 18, was crowned European Under-21 Champion last summer, earning him a ticket to the Pro Tour for two seasons.
Mertens’ first season was good, with some good results, including a place in the 1/8 finals of the Welsh Open. In the World Cup Qualifiers, he recently reached the third qualifying round.
“I am satisfied with my first season,” Mertens told Sporza. “I can be happy. I hope to improve next year, step by step.”
At the start of the season there was still a bit of a hunt for Mertens. “There might have been more at the time, but I still had to get used to the Tour. Once I settled in, I just went up. I hope to keep it going until next season,” it seems.
“Making the step into a professional is not easy: you’re young, you don’t know many people, … It was an adjustment. Several trips also make a big difference. But now I’m gradually finding my way. I feel in my place now. I have a good feeling for the season.” next and years to come.”
The belt is now closed to Mertens. “I’m still watching the World Cup and then I’ll enjoy some time off. That means not playing snooker for a few weeks, to get away from it all. Then I’ll be ready to travel again.”
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