Judd Trump disagrees with Stephen Hendry after Luca Brecel publicly called out

has dismissed Stephen Hendry's previous criticisms of . The pair are locked in an enthralling quarter-final battle at the Crucible, .

Trump had opened up a 5-1 advantage before the 'Belgian Bullet' bounced back to win the final two frames of the session. He signed off with a sublime break of 129 to remind the crowd of the type of mercurial play that saw him become world champion two years ago. Given his pre-match comments, though, Trump was expecting a tough test from his rival.

Brecel has returned to form in Sheffield after being in danger of losing his tour card earlier this season. His lack of form since 2023 has been criticised, with many accusing Brecel of losing motivation and focus by announcing he was combining snooker practice with training for an IronMan event.

Hendry called out the star before Christmas, saying it was "frustrating" to see him waste his talent. He also argued Brecel could be an elite competitor for the next decade and beyond if he wanted it enough.

He could still, for the next 10, 15 years, win so many tournaments, earn so much money, but he doesn't seem interested," ranted the Scot. "Everyone's got their one way of living their life, but at the end of the day, you're so good at doing something, why would you not?"

Trump, however, dismissed suggestions Brecel lacked dedication. That's despite the 30-year-old opting to fly home to Belgium after his first round match last week, only returning to Sheffield hours before his second match.

"When I was 21 and came here, I thought the same as him, I didn't care, just go out and play snooker, said the 2019 champion. "I've seen a lot of comments saying that if he dedicated himself more, he'd be unbelievable, but he wouldn't because of how carefree he is."

Furthermore, Trump argued Brecel's personality helped his play, adding: "He's very happy with his life, I don't think anyone can judge someone that's happy off the table, I think that's the most important thing.

"I'd like to see Luca keep that style of play up because even in the worst case, I was to lose, it's nice to watch in the final. It's good for snooker to have these different personalities.'