Yesterday was a big day for the fans in China, with both Ronnie and Ding in action. Both won and I’m sure that the sponsors is just as delighted about it as the fans. They will face each other tomorrow in the QFs. The atmosphere will certainly be incredible for the occasion and the arena should be packed. Still … it’s unfortunate that they clash so early in the tournament.

About Ronnie’s win … you will find a lot of stuff here. Make sure to check the comments section. It is full of wonderful finds by Kalacs. Thank you Kalacs.

About the other matches played yesterday here is the report by WST:

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Ding delighted his adoring home supporters by edging out Ali Carter in a 6-5 thriller. Having led 4-1, he was pegged back to a decider, but kept his cool with a fine break of 95 to clinch victory.

Judd Trump put on a superb display to see off Mark Williams 6-2 and seal his progression. The 2019 Crucible king was making his first appearance of the campaign, but looked sharp straight out of the gate, firing in breaks of 72, 52, 67, 112 and 112 to set up a meeting with Si Jiahui.

Afterwards he admitted that he has been enjoying a spot of culture and jet-setting during the summer break, which included trips to the Pyramids of Giza and Venice.

Trump said: “I had a good three weeks off. I was able to travel around Europe, the Middle East and a few other places. For once I didn’t go to my normal places like Vegas or Ibiza. I tried to explore the world a little bit and it was good fun. I saw different things and a bit of history. I’m coming into the season after a solid few weeks of history lessons, so I’m excited to get going again.“

TRUMP REFLECTS ON SEASON OPENING WIN

Si gained revenge for his heartbreaking 2023 World Championship semi-final defeat at the hands of Luca Brecel, beating the Belgian 6-2. Si now faces either Judd Trump or Mark Williams.

Chinese amateur Cao Jin scored a superb 6-2 win over World Championship runner-up Jak Jones to reach the second round.

The 39-year-old has competed in the Shanghai Masters once before, losing out 6-0 to David Gilbert in 2019, but he fared much better this time around. Victory this morning earns Cao a last 16 meeting with four-time World Champion Mark Selby. 

Pang Junxu came from 5-4 down to take the last two frames and beat Gary Wilson 6-5. He now sets up a second round clash with world number one Mark Allen.

Judd Trump was sharp indeed, but Mark Williams wasn’t at his best. It’s a shame. I’m not saying that an “in form” Mark would have beaten Judd yesterday but the match could have been closer.

Luca Brecel was disappointing again… alas. That said, Si played really well but that match too should have been much closer!