Chinese snooker player Xiao Guodong delivered a stunning performance at the Wuhan Open on Tuesday, defeating world No. 2 and reigning world champion Kyren Wilson of England 5-4. The thrilling match, held in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, saw Xiao advance to the round of 16 in an intense showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Wilson started strong, making two impressive 63 breaks to establish an early 2-0 lead. However, Xiao showcased resilience by claiming the third frame on the black after requiring snookers and leveled the match by taking the fourth frame, making it 2-2. Riding the momentum, Xiao secured the next two frames to gain a 4-2 lead.
Refusing to concede, Wilson fought back with determination, producing two exceptional century runs of 118 and 108 to tie the match at 4-4. In a nail-biting decider, Xiao maintained his composure to clinch the final frame 61-44, sealing his victory over the top-ranked player.
\"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, aiming to continue his impressive run in the tournament.
In another highlight of the day, home favorite Ding Junhui secured a 5-2 victory over compatriot Yuan Sijun, not only advancing to the round of 16 but also avenging his defeat to Yuan at the same tournament last year.
The match between Ding and Yuan was initially balanced at 1-1, with each player taking a frame. Ding then displayed his exceptional skill, firing in breaks of 95 and 110 to take a 3-1 lead. Although Yuan responded with an 82 break in the fifth frame and kept the sixth frame competitive at 50-50, Ding's prowess prevailed as he captured two consecutive frames to seal the win.
\"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 face England's Chris Wakelin in the next round as he continues his quest for the title.
The successes of Xiao Guodong and Ding Junhui highlight the rising prominence of Chinese players in the international snooker scene, promising exciting developments in the sport for fans worldwide.
Reference(s):
China's Xiao Guodong upsets world No. 2 Kyren Wilson at Wuhan Open
cgtn.com
