Shaun Murphy defeated Zhao Xintong 13-10, ending Zhao’s attempt to defend his World Championship crown. Zhao, 29, had hoped to become the first first-time winner to defend his title since the tournament moved to the Crucible Theatre in 1977. However, Murphy’s performance proved too strong.
Murphy Advances to Semi-Finals
Murphy, 43, reached the semi-finals for the sixth time with the win. He will now face John Higgins, who defeated Neil Robertson 13-10. Higgins, who turns 51 on 18 May, becomes the oldest semi-finalist since Ray Reardon in 1985.
Murphy and Higgins will meet in a repeat of the 2009 final, which Higgins won 18-9. Murphy has since reached the final twice and aims to replicate his 2005 world title win.
Match Highlights
Murphy started strongly, fashioning a 96 break to take a 9-8 lead. Zhao responded with a 71, but Murphy then compiled breaks of 80 and 70 to move closer to victory. Zhao made a run of 81 to extend the contest.
However, Murphy secured the win with a break of 69, ending Zhao’s hopes. Stephen Hendry described Murphy’s performance as “flawless”.
Reactions to the Result
Murphy praised Zhao, calling him the “best on the planet” earlier in the week. He told BBC Sport, “I’m so in awe of Zhao Xintong and how he plays the game. When he is in full flow, he is mesmerising to watch. It is one of the best wins of my career.”
Zhao said, “Shaun played really well and put me under big pressure. He played perfect snooker and deserves his win. All this season I have had big pressure but now it is gone. I trust myself to come back strongly.”
Allen Also Reaches Semi-Finals
Mark Allen also reached the semi-finals, defeating Barry Hawkins 13-11. The 40-year-old is aiming to become the oldest first-time world champion in the modern era.
Murphy’s match against Higgins is scheduled to begin at 13:00 BST on Thursday.