Stephen Hendry won the 2002 World Championship semi-final against Ronnie O'Sullivan 17-13, after being motivated by O'Sullivan's criticism.
What happened?
Ronnie O'Sullivan gave a bombshell interview before the match, revealing his contempt for Stephen Hendry and claiming he led a "sad little life."
O'Sullivan's remarks were published in the papers on the morning of the match.
Why it mattered for Stephen Hendry
Hendry recalled being in his room when his driver showed him the paper with O'Sullivan's comments.
He felt disappointed and let down by O'Sullivan's words, but used them as motivation to win.
Hendry thought, "OK, if he doesn't like me I won't speak to him, I'll just go out and play."
What was said?
O'Sullivan had said, "The most satisfying thing for me would be to send him home to Scotland as quickly as possible for a nice summer off."
He also said, "I'll say hello to him because it's hard to ignore someone, but he's not my cup of tea."
The aftermath
Hendry went on to lose the final to Peter Ebdon, but didn't play the way he did in the semis against O'Sullivan.
He added that O'Sullivan's behaviour during the match, such as laughing and smirking when Hendry missed easy shots, got to him even more.
Hendry was determined to win the match and proved it by winning 17-13.
The two snooker legends have since put their differences aside and now enjoy a good relationship.
Hendry has spoken highly of O'Sullivan, and the two have mutual admiration for each other.
But at the time, O'Sullivan's comments had ignited a fire in Hendry, who was determined to prove him wrong.
And prove him wrong he did, with a convincing 17-13 win in the semi-final.
So, Hendry's victory was not just about winning a match, but about proving a point to his critic.
The 2002 World Championship semi-final was a notable match in Hendry's career, and one that he remembers vividly.
It was a match that showed Hendry's determination and skill, and one that he can look back on with pride.
But it was also a match that was marked by controversy, thanks to O'Sullivan's comments.
The two players have since moved on from the incident, but it remains a notable moment in their rivalry.
And it's a reminder that, even in the heat of competition, players can use criticism as motivation to succeed.
Hendry's win in the semi-final was a testament to his skill and determination, and one that he can look back on with pride.