Ronnie O’Sullivan Out of UK Championship

Ronnie O’Sullivan, eight-time champion was shockingly knocked out on the opening day of the 2024 UK Championship, losing 6-4 to world number 20, Barry Hawkins. O’Sullivan led 3-1 and 4-2 at the York Barbican but Hawkins mounted a stunning comeback to win three consecutive frames and secure the victory. Hawkins described the win as one of the best of his career having beaten O’Sullivan for only the third time in 21 matches.

The 45-year-old admitted he had feared the worst when drawn against O’Sullivan but displayed aggressive and confident play to close out the win. O’Sullivan had started well, recording century breaks of 128 and 114, but Hawkins took control after the mid-session interval, winning four frames in a row. Hawkins led 60-0 in the 10th frame and despite O’Sullivan’s attempt to rally, Hawkins held firm. O’Sullivan, though disappointed, commended Hawkins’ performance recognizing his opponent’s strong play.

“I’m just enjoying playing, that’s the important thing,” said Ronnie O’Sullivan, looking ahead to the next event. In other matches, Shaun Murphy moved into the last 16 with a 6-5 victory over Zhao Xintong, who was playing his first major tournament match after a 20-month ban for match-fixing offenses. Murphy led 3-0 but saw Zhao fight back to level at 3-3. Murphy eventually claimed the win, despite some frustration.

“I’ve done a bit of soul-searching,” said Murphy, reflecting on his career struggles. He will face Ding Junhui, who defeated Robert Milkins 6-5 in a thrilling encounter. In the evening session, David Gilbert defeated Xiao Guodong 6-4 to set up a tie with Hawkins in the next round.