And in the immediate aftermath of his defeat, Wilson said that Murphy “needs this more than me” as a snooker veteran, with the defending world champion still having an “amazing season” despite the final heartbreak.

Speaking to BBC immediately after his loss, Wilson said: “I proved I am a world champion. Every credit to Shaun, making a century to finish for the fans. So well done Shaun.

“No disrespect to Shaun, he is turning into an old man now. So he needs this more than me. I am 33 years old, coming into my prime and I am having an amazing season. Runner-up obviously isn't what I wanted, but I got Berlin next week, so I'll go and smash it in Germany.

“I am a lucky lad win or lose. Listen I lost, I am gutted, but I tell you what, I am going to consume so many jagerbombs tonight and have the best night ever.”

Murphy, who picked up his second Masters crown after winning in 2015, had four century breaks in Sunday’s final, including in the last frame to sign off an incredible week in style.

“There was a stage where it was panic stations, so credit to Kyren,” Murphy said before picking up the Paul Hunter Trophy for a second time.

“This is right up there. The win here in ’15 was big to cement my triple crown, but this is big if not bigger. The 147 was one of the biggest moments of my life. If I am honest I thought my time was gone.

“I’ve teamed up with Peter [Ebdon] and he was very strong, helped me rediscover that self-belief and helped remind me I used to be quite good at this. There is still a bit of life in the old dog yet.”

Despite mocking the new Masters champion over his age, Wilson offered Murphy a congratulatory handshake as the new champ made an exact 100 break before praising his opponent's contributions to snooker.

"I must pay tribute to Kyren, he is a great world champion,” Murphy added. “He really took it to me and there was a stage a few frames ago when it was panic stations."