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THE reality of what he has achieved is only just sinking in for star potter Ali Carter.

Speaking to the Standard one week after making the final of the 888.com World Championships Carter, 28, who grew up in Tollesbury and lived in Tiptree for 12 years, said all he accomplished throughout the two week tournament at The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, is "starting to sink in now".

He made it through to the first ranking final of his career only to be beaten by fellow Essex boy and red-hot favourite to take the title, Ronnie O'Sullivan.

Not only that, he also achieved his first 147 maximum break in his professional career.

However, his success was tinged with an element of sadness.

Carter lost both his nans just three weeks before the tournament began and admits it was hard to lift himself from that.

He said: "It was a big shock.

"I had to miss one of the funerals because I was playing but that was actually the day I got my 147.

"To do it there was awesome but it was a bit eerie too that when I produced the best snooker of my career they weren't here to see it.

"They both followed my career and would've been really proud."

Carter, now ranked number seven in the world, kicked off his fortnight-long campaign by beating Barry Hawkins.

He then followed that up with successes against former champions Shaun Murphy and Peter Ebdon before facing Cambridge's Joe Perry in a thrilling semi-final.

The tussle was close from start to finish but he eventually triumphed 17-15 to reach the final.

He explained he is not sure what made the tournament different and more successful than others he has played in but he did adopt a new game plan.

He said: "I had a game plan that I stuck to and it worked.

"I dissected the longer sessions into mini sessions so it didn't seem like there was as far to go.

"I didn't stick to it in the final though and I'm disappointed about that, but I just ran out of steam.

"My semi-final was a real marathon and mentally draining.

"Ronnie had a day and a half off before the final and that was a big advantage for him.

"It was a massive game for me but I didn't have anything left.

"I can build on it though and when I get there again I'll know how to approach it and what it's about."

His profile within the media has also been raised thanks to what he has achieved but it is something he feels comfortable with.

He explained he received media training as a youngster and, as part owner of Chelmsford Snooker Club, the extra attention can "only be a good thing".

He said: "It's been good for my profile. You just have to be aware of what you say and take things with a pinch of salt.

"It's been great for business as well.

"Everyone's been so supportive and people have come up to congratulate me - sometimes it would be nice to be more conspicuous but it's part of the game and I couldn't wish to do anything better."

Carter has not picked up his cue since the final but travels to China today to play in an exhibition match alongside Stephen Hendry, Mark Williams and Marco Fu.

He will then have his sights set on the UK Championships.

5:22pm Tuesday 13th May 2008

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