Kyren Wilson slams Shaun Murphy for 'unprofessional' behaviour ahead of World Championship

Kyren Wilson has accused of "unprofessional" behaviour ahead of the The pair met in the Masters final earlier this year, with Murphy defeating the reigning world champion 10-7 at Alexandra Palace.

was which saw him call Murphy, 42, an "old man" in what appeared to be an attempted joke. He also said the Magician needed the win more than he did. It has now emerged what prompted Wilson's strange choice of words. In an interview with ahead of his first round match at the Crucible on Saturday, the Warrior explained: "I think, if people knew the story, people would understand and probably actually applaud me almost for what went on in that final.

"Shaun knows full well what happened before the evening session of the Masters final. I don't want to bad mouth anyone, but what he did before the evening session was uncalled for and quite unprofessional."

Wilson wouldn't reveal what Murphy did, although he insisted he still holds the 2005 Crucible champion in high regard. He added: "There might have been a few [salty comments]. We live and learn. I disagree with something that Shaun did during that final, but I'm not taking anything away from him. He played so well during that week. He was really classy."

Murphy has regularly praised Wilson for how he has carried himself as world champion this season, although he was bemused by his rival's comments following the Masters.

Speaking on his popular Murphy said at the time: "I think he's a really good world champion and a good role model. I think he does very well. There was a couple of things he said in the post-match questions, which were either slightly unnecessary or maybe said in the wrong way.

"But before we carry on, I will just say this: You have to put yourself in his shoes for a minute. He's gutted, and your emotions are so high."

Wilson begins his Crucible challenge against Chinese qualifier Lei Peifan on Saturday morning. Murphy, meanwhile, plays Daniel Wells on Tuesday.