China's snooker star Ding Junhui secured a hard-fought 10-7 victory over England's Zak Surety at the World Snooker Championship in Sheffield on Tuesday, progressing to the tournament's last 16 while applauding his opponent's record-setting performance.
The match at the Crucible Theater saw Ding build an early 6-3 lead before facing a spirited challenge from debutant Surety, who became the first player in history to score four century breaks (109, 136, 110, 102) in his maiden appearance at the prestigious venue.
"I tried my best to control the rhythm of the match," Ding said after the match, acknowledging his opponent's aggressive tactics. "Surety kept attacking me but I stayed focused on scoring opportunities."
Ding's victory ended a four-year streak of first-round exits at the Crucible. The three-time UK Championship winner sealed the decisive frames with breaks of 116 and 75, showcasing his trademark composure under pressure.
In other championship news, rising Chinese talent Si Jiahui staged his own triumph over 2023 semifinalist David Gilbert (10-6). Si's breakthrough performance included an 8-4 mid-match lead and crucial late-frame heroics to secure progression.
The victories highlight China's growing influence in professional snooker, with multiple players advancing into the tournament's second week. Fans worldwide now await Friday's last-16 matchups as competitors vie for the sport's most coveted title.
