Pang Junxu Sets Up O’Sullivan Clash After Historic Win
In a thrilling all-Chinese clash at the 2025 World Snooker Championship in Sheffield, England, Pang Junxu emerged victorious over compatriot Zhang Anda with a score of 10-7. This landmark win marked Pang’s first-ever progression to the tournament’s round of 16.
The match began with Zhang leading 5-3 after the first session. Pang fought back in the second session, winning the ninth frame with an impressive break of 111. However, Zhang swiftly responded by claiming the following frame, preserving his lead. The two players then traded frames, with Zhang maintaining a 7-5 advantage.
Undeterred, Pang staged a remarkable comeback from the 13th frame onwards. He secured four consecutive frames, showcasing his skills with one century break and three breaks exceeding 50 points. This surge put Pang in a commanding 9-7 lead, leaving Zhang with little chance of recovery in the 17th frame. The match concluded with a final score of 10-7 in Pang’s favor.
Pang’s reward for this hard-fought victory is a second-round encounter with snooker legend Ronnie O’Sullivan. The seven-time world champion, participating in his 33rd consecutive World Championship, demonstrated his enduring class by comfortably defeating Ali Carter 10-4 in his opening match, despite a three-month absence from official competitions.
In other notable results, world number one Judd Trump convincingly overcame China’s Zhou Yuelong 10-4 to set up a second-round clash with Shaun Murphy, a two-time Masters champion following his triumph in January.
Key Takeaways:
- Pang Junxu defeated Zhang Anda 10-7 in an all-Chinese first-round match
- Pang reached the round of 16 at the World Snooker Championship for the first time
- Pang will face seven-time world champion Ronnie O’Sullivan in the second round
- World number one Judd Trump beat Zhou Yuelong 10-4 and will play Shaun Murphy next
The 2025 World Snooker Championship continues to deliver excitement and drama, as rising stars and established champions alike battle for the sport’s most prestigious title. With Pang Junxu’s landmark victory and the prospect of enticing clashes in the rounds ahead, snooker fans are undoubtedly eager to witness how this compelling tournament unfolds.
