Ding Junhui came back from 5-1 down to beat Ronnie by 6-5 at the Peak Showdown exhibition today.

Congratulations Ding!

Here is the trophy ceremony. Ronnie didn’t look disappointed or unhappy in any way. It seems that there was a good crowd in attendance.

And thank to Kalacs, the last two frames before the MSI. Ronnie scored a 80 and a 119 to lead 3-0.

And the last balls of the match…

Both players had recovered from altitude sickness and were feeling well. The presenter – a Chinese version of Johnny Depp 🤔 – had introduced Ronnie as the “39 ranking event winner” … the fans on Weibo were not impressed.

It transpired on Weibo that there had been plans to stream the exhibition, but it wasn’t possible because of contractual restrictions. Once again, I don’t understand. This is an exhibition, absolutely nothing is happening on the Main Tour, the Seniors Tour or the Q-Tour during the New Year extended week-end. What harm would it do to authorise it?

And of course … on this first day of 2024, I’m wishing all of you, and those dear to you, the very best for the year ahead: health, peace of mind, success in your endeavours and joy in your life!