Judd Trump has advanced to the quarter-finals of the Shenzhen Open after defeating China’s Si Jiahui 5-2, setting up a highly anticipated rematch against four-time world champion Mark Selby.
The Englishman, currently ranked world number two, racked up breaks of 80, 71, 53, and 54 during the match. However, his progress was nearly derailed by an unusual technical malfunction involving the LED advertising board situated behind the snooker table.
During the seventh frame, after Si missed a shot on the yellow ball, Trump attempted to pot the same ball into the top-right pocket. The LED screen unexpectedly flashed blue directly in his line of sight, momentarily interrupting his concentration. Trump managed to regain his composure and cleared the remaining colors to secure the victory.
Reflecting on the importance of decisive moments in matches, Trump said, “At this stage there’s always a crucial ball or crucial frame. So far this season and maybe last season I have not been winning those. But that can change at any point – you have just got to keep putting yourself in those positions.”
In other action, Selby, who claimed the China Open title in August, dominated Stephen Maguire 5-3, highlighted by a top break of 99. World champion Wu Yize also progressed, beating Ricky Walden 5-3 to set up a quarter-final encounter with Shaun Murphy, echoing their final clash at the Crucible in May.
Murphy eased past Elliot Slessor 5-1, while Yuan Sijun defeated Zak Surety 5-2 and Jimmy Robertson thrashed Scott Donaldson 5-0.
Notable exits included Neil Robertson, who lost 5-2 to Chris Wakelin, and Kyren Wilson, who fell 5-2 to Michael Holt. Holt, who compiled an impressive 126 break, reached his first ranking event quarter-final since the 2024 UK Championship.
Organizers need to fix those boards. Distracting players with flashing lights isn’t professional tournament management.
Biggest shock of the night has to be Robertson going out. Wakelin playing at this level is impressive.
Finally, a proper quarter-final! Selby vs Trump is always must-watch TV. Hope Mike brings his A-game.
That LED glitch almost cost Trump the frame. Incredible focus to recover like that under pressure.