The Defending Champion is through to the quarterfinals in Shanghai after beating Zhou Jinhao by 6-1 this morning (afternoon in China).

Zhou had impressed against Zhang Anda and got the better start today as well as he won the first frame against Ronnie. But Ronnie, who looked very focused and calm around the table, played really well after that and didn’t lose another frame. Ronnie was watched by his children Lilly and Ronnie Jr.

Here are the scores of that match:

No century but good solid scoring.

Here is the report by WST (so far):

SHANGHAI MASTERS DAY TWO: ROCKET CONTINUES RED HOT STREAK

Ronnie O’Sullivan got his bid for a fifth straight Shanghai Masters title underway with a 6-1 demolition of Chinese 16-year-old Zhou Jinhao.

The Rocket has won a remarkable 19 consecutive matches in Shanghai and hasn’t lost in the city since a defeat at the hands of Michael Holt back in 2016. 

He fired in breaks of 85, 78, 85, 79 and 60 during today’s match and will now play either old adversary Ali Carter of Chinese legend Ding Junhui.

Plus more images shared on Weibo.

Also shared on Weibo a pictures of Ronnie taking part in the “Opening Ceremony”

And WST shared also this … Ronnie talks Djokovic

Ronnie O’Sullivan is enjoying an eight-year undefeated streak at the Shanghai Masters, but today he spoke of his inspiration from one of tennis’ most dominant figures, Novak Djokovic.

The Rocket began his 2024 Shanghai Masters campaign with a 6-1 win over Chinese teenager Zhou Jinhao. However, away from the baize, he recently was invited to Wimbledon to support Djokovic in the Serbian’s private box.

O’Sullivan said: “He has to be up there with Michael Jordan and the greatest sportspeople that have been in any sport, not just tennis. I think every sportsperson looks at people like Djokovic and Jordan and think what they can learn from them. To meet him, watch him and have a few WhatsApp messages was great.”

O’SULLIVAN TALKS TENNIS, SNOOKER AND SHANGHAI

Plus the end of the match on their YouTube Channel