Shaun Murphy, known as “The Magician,” showcased his snooker mastery by defeating China’s Ding Junhui 5-2 in the round of 16 at the World Snooker Tour (WST) World Open in Shangrao, Jiangxi Province, on Wednesday. Murphy established an early lead, winning three of the first four frames to go up 3-1.
Ding, ranked World No. 9, fought back in the fifth frame with determination. Despite missing a maximum break, he capitalized on Murphy’s missed opportunities to take the frame. In the sixth frame, Ding jumped ahead with a 20-1 lead, poised to level the match. However, a costly error allowed Murphy to regain control and move within one frame of victory.
In the seventh frame, Murphy sealed the match with an impressive break of 93, securing his spot in the quarterfinals as the highest-ranked player left in the tournament. “It’s always tough playing against Ding in front of his home crowd,” Murphy said. “I’m pleased with how I held my nerve and closed out the match.”
Murphy will face fellow Englishman Joe O’Connor next, who advanced by defeating Michael Holt 5-3. Ali Carter continued his strong performance by eliminating David Lilley 5-1 and is set to play Barry Hawkins, who overcame Wales’ Ryan Day 5-3.
England’s Zak Surety caused an upset by knocking out Liu Hongyu of China 5-2 and will compete against Tom Ford in the quarterfinals. China’s Pang Junxu emerged as the only home player to progress after defeating Xu Si 5-2. Pang will take on Scotland’s John Higgins, who staged a comeback to edge past China’s Zhou Yuelong 5-4.
The quarterfinals promise thrilling matchups as players vie for a place in the semifinals of the WST World Open.
