Xiao Guodong feels “sorry” for his idol Ronnie O’Sullivan after beating the seven-time world champion 5-3 in the second round of the World Grand Prix.
O’Sullivan, who was searching for a record-extending 42nd ranking title, is the latest big name to suffer an early exit in Hong Kong, with defending champion Neil Robertson and world number one Judd Trump among those to fall in the first round.
Guodong, who beat 2024 world champion Kyren Wilson on Tuesday, produced a tournament-leading 144-break in the opening frame before winning the second.
O’Sullivan fought back to level the match and the pair exchanged frames before Xiao built breaks of 58 and 66 to advance to the quarter-finals.
“It’s hard to say something. I’m happy I win the round and also, he is my idol. I want him going to the final, win the championship, and I want him doing well,” Xiao told the World Snooker Tour.
“But it’s sport. When I play anyone, I don’t want to lose. I feel sorry for Ronnie but we are still very good friends.”
Xiao will face Pang Junxu, who beat Si Jiahui 5-3, in the last eight.
Barry Hawkins, the 2017 champion, was also defeated in the second round, losing 5-3 to Zhang Anda.
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