Nine consecutive wins! Latest report from the Snooker World Championship: The first seeded player eliminated, Si Jiahui loses 3-10 to Vafaei.

On April 23 Beijing time, another match in the first round of the Snooker World Championship main event concluded. Chinese player Si Jiahui faced Iranian powerhouse Vafaei. Surprisingly, after leading 3-1, Si Jiahui suffered a devastating nine consecutive losses to Vafaei, ending with a 3-10 defeat. Starting strong but finishing poorly, he became the first seeded player eliminated in this tournament, which is truly disappointing!

Si Jiahui, ranked 15th in the world, had an average performance this season with no notable achievements. In the first round, he encountered the formidable Iranian player Vafaei, who possesses strong accuracy and defensive skills. Therefore, before the match, many were concerned for Si Jiahui, hoping he wouldn't be the first seeded player eliminated. Unfortunately, Si Jiahui's form and touch were cold, ultimately resulting in a heavy defeat!

After the match began, Si Jiahui started well, achieving a dream 3-1 lead. It seemed he might have a chance to win, but unexpectedly, he then entered a collapse mode, losing continuously. Vafaei overtook the score, and soon Si Jiahui's mentality completely deteriorated, losing fighting spirit. Consequently, he suffered more losses, enduring nine consecutive defeats, and finally lost 3-10 to Vafaei, being eliminated and having to return home. However, Si Jiahui's high start and low finish made the loss particularly harsh!

Recall the 2023 World Championship semifinal where Si Jiahui, leading 14-5, suffered 11 consecutive losses to Brecel and missed the final. Now, this scene repeated at the World Championship, vividly reminiscent. In this World Championship, Si Jiahui again led 3-1 in the first round but collapsed, suffering nine consecutive losses to Vafaei and being eliminated. It feels that after playing for so many years, apart from some accuracy, Si Jiahui's cue ball control, defensive positioning, and mentality are very poor. He cannot handle tough battles or adverse situations. Thus, Vafaei became the first qualifying player to advance, while Si Jiahui became the first seeded player eliminated!

So far, 15 spots in the tournament's top 16 have been determined. The Chinese contingent still holds 4 participation slots. The final remaining slot will be contested between Robertson and Chinese player Pang Junxu. We hope Pang Junxu can upset the Australian powerhouse Robertson. Let's wait and see,加油!

Text/Sports Novel