China's reigning snooker world champion Zhao Xintong delivered a commanding performance on Monday, defeating wildcard compatriot Han Fuyuan 5-0 in the WST World Open qualifiers in Yushan, Jiangxi Province. The World No. 5 showcased his signature precision, opening with a 128-break in the second frame and following with a 103-break in the third.
Han, an amateur player who has long admired Zhao, fought valiantly in the fourth frame with a 48-run but could not halt his opponent's momentum. Zhao now advances to face Long Zehuang in the main draw, continuing China's strong representation at the tournament.
Elsewhere, seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan of England cruised past Scotland's Ross Muir 5-1. The 50-year-old veteran received a walkover in the next round due to India's Ishpreet Singh Chadha withdrawing, setting up a clash with compatriot Matthew Selt for a spot in the last 16.
