London: Mark Williams stayed true to his word after clinching his third world snooker title on Monday by conducting his post-match news conference naked.

The 43-year-old, who had promised to strip off if he won, beat Scotland's John Higgins 18-16 in a dramatic final to become the event's oldest winner for 40 years.

"It's an unbelievable story, 12 months ago I was thinking of chucking it. Here I am winning the 2018 World Championships," said Williams.

"Where has it come from? Unbelievable 12 months. If I never win another tour or my form goes downhill I don't care. I've just done something I thought I'd never ever do."

The three-time World Champion looked forward to returning to the Crucible next year and promised to outdo himself if he defended his title.

"I'm just looking forward to coming back next year, I'm not going to say anything stupid and end up like this, but to be honest if I win this next year I'd cartwheel down here naked."

About the match, Williams said: "You have to expect a comeback from John Higgins, when you are 50-60 in front, he is the best at coming back.

"I knew at the end if I didn't get enough in front he would clear up again, but I'm over the moon. Last year, I was seriously thinking of giving up, but my game is in pretty good shape now."

"The turnaround in the past 12 months is something I cannot work out," Williams told BBC Sport.

"I am very surprised how well I have done. I did not think there was another title in me 12 months ago.

"If there is another world title in me, that would be unbelievable. If there is not, then I can't grumble."

The 2000 and 2003 champion had not won a ranking event since 2011 before this season and did not even qualify for the Crucible last year.

At that point he considered retiring, but with three young children to provide for was persuaded to continue by his wife, Joanne.

He claimed the Northern Ireland Open and German Masters this season and is the oldest world champion since 45-year-old Ray Reardon in 1978.

"This was one of the most enjoyable matches and it was always going to be tough against John," he said. "It was an emotional experience that I did not think I was going to get again." Agencies