World Snooker Championship 2025: Zhang Anda Extends Lead as Murphy Dominates, O'Sullivan Begins Campaign
Big Surprises and Early Power Plays Mark World Snooker Championship 2025
The opening rounds of the World Snooker Championship 2025 wasted no time flipping expectations. Kyren Wilson, who came in sporting the champion’s crown, was knocked out in a high-tension, 10-9 thriller by China’s Lei Peifan. It’s the sort of upset that ripples through the Crucible, setting a nervous tone for the tournament’s giants—a reminder that even the best get pushed to the wire in Sheffield.
But as one favorite packs his case, others waste no time stamping their authority. Shaun Murphy was all business in his clash with Daniel Wells. He racked up impressive breaks—an 89 and a 76 to close the session—and walked away with a 7-2 lead. Murphy looked dialed in from the start, capitalizing on every mistake and maintaining relentless pressure. When Murphy’s in this sort of mood, you get the feeling he’s not just playing to win—he’s auditioning for the title.
Then there’s Zhang Anda, who’s quietly but effectively building momentum. Up 5-3 against Pang Junxu, Zhang’s performance was marked by his careful shot selection and composed safety play. The difference between these two was often about nerve under pressure. Zhang has shown that he’s not just here to participate—he’s here to send a message.
O'Sullivan, Trump, and Other Heavyweights Enter the Fray
You can’t talk about Sheffield without mentioning the man everyone’s watching: Ronnie O'Sullivan. The Rocket drew Ali Carter for his opener—an opponent who always seems to bring out drama. Their rivalry has a pulse of its own, and this time, the scoreboard reads 5-4 to O'Sullivan after the first session. Nothing to call just yet, but if history is any guide, nobody will blink until the last frame ball drops.
Meanwhile, Judd Trump is already leaning on the gas pedal. His 6-3 edge over Zhou Yuelong features the sort of precision and counter-attacking play that’s become his calling card. Trump has a knack for shutting the door once he gets a sniff of a lead—any slip from Zhou, and things could get ugly quick.
Other big names are looming. Luca Brecel is locked in with Ryan Day as they trade heavy punches in their battle. Mark Selby, another consistent danger man, is teeing up against Ben Woollaston. With so many live wires in the draw, every session has the chance to spin the script.
- Kyren Wilson bows out, shocking the crowd early.
- Shaun Murphy looking unstoppable with sharp breaks.
- Zhang Anda quietly building a solid lead.
- Ronnie O'Sullivan gets down to business against old rival Ali Carter.
- Judd Trump keeps his foot on the pedal with a solid margin.
This championship is always unpredictable. The Crucible is already buzzing, and there are more than a few names making their intentions clear. Whether it’s a quick out for a champion, a statement match for a challenger, or a fresh twist in a famous rivalry, fans have already gotten more than their money’s worth—and we’re just getting started.