Xiao Guodong says ‘it’s complicated’ as he knocks out Ronnie O’Sullivan at World Grand Prix
World No 10 unhappy to eliminate his idol as he sets up all-China clash in quarter-finals, which will feature six Chinese players
Xiao Guodong said he was not happy with eliminating his idol Ronnie O’Sullivan after beating the seven-time world champion 5-3 to book a World Grand Prix quarter-final spot on Thursday.
Breaks of 144 and 78 gave Xiao a 2-0 lead but O’Sullivan twice drew level to split the first six frames with the world No 10 from Chongqing. Two more 50-plus breaks from Xiao eventually sealed his back-to-back wins over O’Sullivan, after also beating the decorated Englishman at the Champions of Champions in November 2024.
“It felt complicated, I didn’t want him to be eliminated,” said the 36-year-old Xiao. “He’s my idol and we have a good relationship. We chatted all the time and he’s such a respectable opponent.
“He’s also a legend and I wish him to play towards the end [of tournaments]. But then, this is a competitive sport, so it’s very cruel. Obviously I want to beat him when we are drawn together. I am happy to win, that’s for sure, but it’s complicated.”
“It’s true that Ronnie didn’t play too well towards the end. He’d left some chances and I took them. I think this is a sport [based around] who makes fewer mistakes and is able to seize the opportunity.”