World Championship semi-finalist Jack Jones says criticism on social media only “motivates” him to perform better.
The world No. 44 advanced to the final four by defeating Zhang Anda, Si Jiahui and Judd Trump, but his style of play has drawn negative comments.
“I’m not the first to win a title, every fighter has won it,” said Jones, who is aiming to become the first person to qualify for a world title since Sean Murphy in 2005.
“I like seeing things like that as much as I like seeing good things. It motivates me in a way.”
The 30-year-old Welshman is playing in the semi-finals for only the second time in his career, having reached the quarter-finals on his Crucible debut 12 months ago.
His calm demeanor, methodical style and excellent safety play helped him achieve further success at Sheffield.
Australia’s 2010 world champion Neil Robertson told BBC Sport that Jones was “one of the top five safety players in the world” and that “it’s not his fault that he takes other players out of rhythm.” he said.
But against world No. 2 Trump, he also recorded seven half-century and double-century breaks, with the Englishman starting with an excellent 110 but then building up just two half-century breaks. It was much better than that.
And he feels the attacks on his methods and game are completely unwarranted.
“I saw one comment and some of it wasn’t very nice,” Jones added.
“I know all the players understand that, so I just put it out there. Maybe I shouldn’t have, but I’m sitting at home and posting something on social media. They write and criticize people.
“I think I finished the second session with a faster shot time than him.” [Trump]”