David G Gilbert admits he is worried about fatigue after he reached the final of the German Masters on Saturday.
The 37-year-old cruised past Wales’ Duane Jones thanks to a 6-1 scoreline after a superb start in Berlin.
Gilbert started the first frame in nervous fashion before then kicking on and proving his ability at the highest level.
The world number 19 is now guaranteed £35,000 this week to add to his £157,000 season earnings so far.
Gilbert, 126.00 to win the World Championships, has beaten Ben Woollaston, Mark Selby and Neil Robertson on his way to the final, but he has lost both his ranking finals to date.
He failed to win the International Championship in 2015 and the Yushan Open this year and the Englishman admits fatigue could be an issue.
“It was a struggle for both of us early on, neither of us have experienced that kind of fantastic atmosphere,” Gilbert told World Snooker.
“We wanted to try to put a show on and play proper snooker. But for me it was just about getting to six frames. I have had experience of playing in semi-finals before. I was prepared to be useless, it didn’t bother me. In snooker there are so many ups and downs, matches can go either way and I have seen them go the wrong way before.
“I will try to get some sleep now because last night was the worst I’ve ever had. I was so knackered after playing two matches but it’s weird when you are that tired you can’t switch off. Hopefully I’ll be ready for tomorrow.”