- Ronnie O’Sullivan draws rival Ali Carter in a fiery first-round clash.
- Defending champion Kyren Wilson faces debutant Lei Peifan.
- Ten Chinese players make history by reaching the Crucible stage.
The 2025 World Snooker Championship kicks off with high drama as seven-time champion Ronnie O’Sullivan draws long-time rival Ali Carter in the first round.
Elsewhere, defending champion Kyren Wilson begins his title defense against Lei Peifan. Lei is one of a record-breaking ten Chinese players in the main draw.
Rivalries, Debuts, and Records Set Stage for 2025 Crucible Drama
Ronnie O’Sullivan’s opening-round clash with Ali Carter promises fireworks, both due to their turbulent history and O’Sullivan’s uncertain form. Their intense rivalry has spanned over a decade. With Carter ranked 18th in the world, this is no easy start for “The Rocket.” He is chasing a record eighth modern-era world title.
Kyren Wilson begins his campaign against Lei Peifan, a debutant but formidable challenger. Wilson, fresh off his 2024 triumph, faces pressure to deliver a strong title defense. In this tournament, even the top seeds have little room for error. The Crucible’s tight theatre only adds to the mental strain.
The rise of Chinese talent continues to shape the snooker landscape. Ten Chinese players have qualified, a new record, showcasing the sport’s global growth. Zhao Xintong, despite returning as an amateur following a betting suspension, poses a serious threat to last year’s runner-up Jak Jones.
Veterans like John Higgins, Neil Robertson, and Mark Selby also return to the Crucible, bringing experience but facing dangerous underdogs. Their matchups, along with up-and-comers like Fan Zhengyi and Hossein Vafaei, ensure that no path to the final will be straightforward. Expect shocks, drama, and high-quality snooker throughout.
With rivalries reignited, newcomers rising, and records ready to be broken, the 2025 World Snooker Championship is shaping up to be a tournament to remember.
“We’ve got history, me and Ali… but I just want to play the game, not the grudge.” — Ronnie O’Sullivan on facing Carter at the Crucible.
