Latest update from the Snooker Wuhan Open: Round of 16 decided, China records 3 wins and 6 losses, Zhao Xintong eliminated.

On August 27th Beijing time, the Round of 32 at the Snooker Wuhan Open finished, with 9 Chinese players competing and achieving 3 wins against 6 losses. Apart from Zhang Anda, Si Jiahui, and Xiao Guodong who moved on to the last 16, the others—Zhou Yuelong, Lei Peifan, Yuan Sijun, Zhao Xintong, Chang Bingyu, and Fu Jiajun—were all eliminated. This is a rather poor outcome, especially Zhao Xintong’s unexpected defeat, indicating that the level of Chinese players still needs improvement. Additionally, the Ding Junhui law was broken in this round by Moody, delivering a double blow. Ding Junhui can now feel relieved!

Facing former ranking event champion Mark Selby, Zhao Xintong encountered strong resistance and engaged in a fierce battle with his opponent. He took the first chance to lead 4-3 and, although dragged into a deciding frame, Zhao held a commanding position at 61-12, with the black and some reds close to the cushion—victory seemed certain. However, Zhao appeared overconfident, playing carelessly, making a defensive error, and untying a ball near the cushion. Mark Selby seized the opportunity to make a winning break and complete a stunning comeback, defeating Zhao 5-4 in a heartbreaking loss. Losing from such a favorable position is truly hard to accept!

It feels like Zhao Xintong’s level has dropped sharply; he is no comparison to his World Championship form. Once his accuracy in attack falters, winning becomes very difficult. Hopefully, this is not just a fleeting phase and that he will refocus his efforts on snooker!

Also, the Ding Junhui law was broken when Zhou Yuelong suffered a heavy 1-5 defeat to the 18-year-old rising star Moody. The streak that said whoever beats Ding Junhui would be eliminated in the next round has finally ended, unexpectedly by a Chinese player. Though it doesn’t carry much significance, maintaining it for 24 matches was impressive. Hopefully, Ding Junhui will practice more to avoid disappointing fans. Currently, three Chinese players remain aiming for the quarterfinals, led by defending champion Xiao Guodong. Let’s hope he keeps advancing. See the image above for the Round of 16 matchups. Keep it up!

Written by / Sports Novel