Ronnie O'Sullivan Faces Chinese Newcomer He Guoqiang in World Snooker Championship

Seven-time champion Ronnie O'Sullivan has been paired with Chinese debutant He Guoqiang in the World Snooker Championship, as he seeks a record eighth title. He, ranked 47th in the world, defeated Jack Lisowski in the qualifying rounds and will begin his maiden campaign against O'Sullivan on Tuesday. Notably, He has beaten O'Sullivan in two of their previous three encounters. The tournament features 11 Chinese players, including defending champion Zhao Xintong, who will face Liam Highfield in the opening match. Four-time champion John Higgins will face two-time runner-up Ali Carter, while another four-time winner, Mark Selby, takes on 2024 finalist Jak Jones. The competition starts on Sunday and concludes on May 3-4, with the final taking place on the last day. Since the introduction of 32 players in the first round in 1982, all 16 top seeds have never reached the second round. Zhao will attempt to break the 'Crucible Curse' and become the first maiden winner to successfully defend the title. O'Sullivan will make a record 34th straight appearance at the iconic venue. The full first-round draw is available, with 24 different champions crowned since 1977, including China's Zhao Xintong, who won in 2025, and Stephen Hendry and Ronnie O'Sullivan, who share the record of seven crowns apiece.