In a thrilling snooker showdown at the Wuhan Open in central China’s Hubei Province on Tuesday, China’s Xiao Guodong upset world No. 2 Kyren Wilson of England with a narrow 5-4 victory, advancing to the round of 16.
Wilson, the reigning world champion, started strong with two 63-point breaks, establishing an early 2-0 lead. Xiao, undeterred, fought back by taking the third frame on the black and leveling the score at 2-2 after the fourth frame. Riding the momentum, Xiao clinched the next two frames, but Wilson showcased his resilience by making two consecutive century breaks of 118 and 108, tying the match at 4-4.
The decisive ninth frame was a nail-biter, with Xiao ultimately prevailing 61-44. “Kyren is ranked No. 2 in the world and became World Champion this year, so I kept a clear head and reminded myself to be patient for my chances,” Xiao said after the match. “Whether I was leading or trailing, I couldn’t let my guard down. When I compete in China, I really want to win. Having fans and my family in the audience makes me want to play at my best. Thankfully, I managed to get the result today.”
Xiao will face England’s Barry Hawkins in the next round.
Meanwhile, home favorite Ding Junhui secured a 5-2 victory over compatriot Yuan Sijun, not only reaching the round of 16 but also avenging his defeat to Yuan at last year’s tournament. After an initial 1-1 tie, Ding surged ahead with impressive breaks of 95 and 110, taking a 3-1 lead. Despite Yuan’s 82-point break in the fifth frame and a closely contested sixth frame, Ding closed out the match by winning the next two frames.
“Chinese players are improving their technical skills and gaining more experience; they are getting better,” Ding commented. “They have become familiar with the different styles of players, and Chinese competitors stand out in various events now.”
Ding is set to play Chris Wakelin of England in the upcoming round.
Reference(s):
China's Xiao Guodong upsets world No. 2 Kyren Wilson at Wuhan Open
cgtn.com
