- Ronnie O'Sullivan lost his World Snooker Championship semi-final match against Zhao Xintong by a score of 17-7.
- O'Sullivan cited uncertainty about whether his cue, the ferrule, or his own performance were to blame for the loss, stating he was "at a loss".
- He changed his cue tip and ferrule after the first session, but his performance worsened.
- O'Sullivan stated his disappointment, but downplayed the significance of not winning an eighth world title.
- Zhao Xintong expressed mixed feelings about defeating his idol, O'Sullivan, but acknowledged the need to play well.
IN FULL
Ronnie O’Sullivan says ‘three things’ were behind his semi-final defeat