Major Upsets Mark Early World Snooker Championship

The 2025 World Snooker Championship's opening round delivered major upsets, with defending champion Kyren Wilson and last year's runner-up Jak Jones both eliminated, alongside early exits for Neil Robertson and Mark Selby. Debutant Lei Peifan impressed by coming from behind to defeat Wilson, while Ronnie O'Sullivan advanced comfortably after confirming his entry at the last minute. Judd Trump and Shaun Murphy remain among the favorites, with their upcoming last-16 match highly anticipated. Chris Wakelin celebrated his first Crucible win and will next face Mark Allen, who is pursuing a Triple Crown. Prize money increases significantly for quarter-finalists, adding to the tournament's stakes. The championship continues at the Crucible Theatre, broadcast live on BBC and TNT Sports, with a best-of-35 final scheduled.