Xiao Guodong feels “sorry” for his idol Ronnie O’Sullivan after beating the seven-time world champion 5-3 within the second spherical of the World Grand Prix.
O’Sullivan, who was trying to find a record-extending forty second rating title, is the most recent huge identify to endure an early exit in Hong Kong, with defending champion Neil Robertson and world primary Judd Trump amongst these to fall within the first spherical.
Guodong, who beat 2024 world champion Kyren Wilson on Tuesday, produced a tournament-leading 144-break within the opening body earlier than successful the second.
O’Sullivan fought again to degree the match and the pair exchanged frames earlier than Xiao constructed breaks of 58 and 66 to advance to the quarter-finals.
“It is exhausting to say one thing. I am joyful I win the spherical and likewise, he’s my idol. I would like him going to the ultimate, win the championship, and I would like him doing properly,” Xiao informed the World Snooker Tour.
“But it surely’s sport. Once I play anybody, I do not wish to lose. I really feel sorry for Ronnie however we’re nonetheless superb buddies.”
Xiao will face Pang Junxu, who beat Si Jiahui 5-3, within the final eight.
Barry Hawkins, the 2017 champion, was additionally defeated within the second spherical, shedding 5-3 to Zhang Anda.
Though Hawkins levelled at 3-3 after being 3-1 down, Zhang responded with breaks of 82 and 97 to finish the win.
