Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵
The World Snooker Championship witnessed an intense opening session as Ronnie O’Sullivan, a septuplet champion, clashed with rookie semi-finalist Zhao Xintong. The match concluded with a 4-4 tie, leaving both contenders vying for a coveted spot in the final.
The Thrilling Start to the Semi-Final
Despite O’Sullivan’s extensive experience and prowess on the championship stage, Zhao demonstrated remarkable composure. The novice took an early 2-0 lead and later secured a thrilling victory with a high break of 86, the match’s pinnacle, to conclude the opening leg of their best-of-33 frames contest in a stalemate.
Zhao’s Impressive Finish
In the closing moments of the afternoon, Zhao executed a powerful shot, striking a corner red and leaving the balls rolling around the table as he applied the finishing touches.
O’Sullivan’s Resilience and Zhao’s Composure
The Rocket’s Fightback
Earlier, O’Sullivan, who regarded his 13-9 triumph over Si Jiahui in the quarter-finals as a fortunate escape, secured three consecutive frames and, at one point, hindered his opponent from scoring for nearly 34 minutes.
Zhao’s Nerve-Released Performance
Zhao exhibited no signs of anxiety during his debut at the theatre’s one-table setup. He swiftly acclimated, capturing the initial two frames with ease.
- O’Sullivan potted the white off the opening break and managed only a couple of reds as Zhao compiled a decisive 60 to secure the first frame.
- The subsequent frame followed a similar pattern, with O’Sullivan missing a black, allowing Zhao to capitalize with a 62 break.
Momentum Swings and Crucial Breaks
The Rocket stirred into action at 2-0, displaying his finest shot to date by masterfully hiding the blue. He then proceeded with a breezy 64, reclaiming the initiative.
By the mid-session break, O’Sullivan had regained control, crafting a smooth 73 to even the score. He later missed out on a century after jamming a black in the pocket’s jaws.
The Enduring Battle
Post-restart, O’Sullivan emerged victorious in a safety exchange and sealed the fifth frame, leaving Zhao scoreless for over half an hour and across two frames. When Zhao eventually broke his drought, he managed to level the match at 3-3.
The Climactic Conclusion
Both rivals saved their strongest performances for the match’s finale, engaging in a captivating duel. O’Sullivan reasserted his dominance with an 82 break, only for Zhao to retaliate with an 86.